Nano-curcumin formulations for targeted therapy of colorectal cancer

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the third most common cause of cancer death in men and women. Chemotherapeutic drugs such as 5-fluorouracil (5-FU), irinotecan, and oxaliplatin are widely used to treat the growth and proliferation of cancer cells. However, these agents lead to unwanted side effects in the patients. Anti-cancer herbal drugs could be used to overcome such major roadblocks and minimize the adverse effects. Curcumin (CUR), a yellow polyphenolic pigment, is derived from the rhizome of turmeric (Curcuma longa L.). Many studies have shown that CUR could regulate inflammatory pathways, angiogenesis, and metastasis in cancer development. CUR intake is restricted due to significant drawbacks like poor water solubility, chemical instability, low bioavailability, and rapid metabolism, which is an important obstacle to its effectiveness. Therefore, specific attention has been paid to delivery systems based on CUR nano-formulations to overcome such hurdles. In the current review, we have highlighted the colonic delivery aspects along with the strategical approach of using nano-formulations for CRC therapy.