Nutritional biochemistry of curcumin (diferuloylmethane) and a review of its biological actions on articular chondrocytes

Curcumin (diferuloylmethane) is the principle biochemical component of the spice turmeric and has been shown to possess potent anti-catabolic, anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant, properties. In this chapter we provide a brief review of osteoarthritis (OA) and discuss the anti-inflammatory properties of curcumin in the context of its actions on articular chondrocytes. We highlight its potential benefits and drawbacks for treating OA and related osteoarticular conditions. Recent work has shown that curcumin protects human chondrocytes from the catabolic actions of interleukin (IL)-1 beta (IL-1) including matrix metalloproteinase-3 (MMP-3) upregulation, inhibition of collagen type II and down-regulation of β1-integrin expression. Curcumin blocks IL-1-induced proteoglycan degradation, Nuclear Factor Kappa B (NF-B) signaling, chondrocyte apoptosis and activation of caspase-3. The available data from in vitro and in vivo studies suggest that curcumin may be a beneficial complementary treatment for OA in humans and companion animals. Nevertheless, before initiating extensive clinical trials, more basic research is required to improve its absorption and bioavailability and gain additional information about its safety and efficacy in different species. Once these obstacles have been overcome, curcumin and structurally related biochemicals could become suitable nutritional and nutraceutical alternatives to the non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs that are currently used for the treatment of OA. © 2010 Nova Science Publishers, Inc. All rights reserved