Therapeutic potential of curcumin in autophagy modulation: Insights into the role of transcription factor EB

Transcription factor EB (TFEB) is a basic Helix–Loop–Helix/Leucine Zipper (bHLHZip) class of DNA-binding proteins, which can control the expression of genes included in the autophagy–lysosomal pathway. TFEB regulates the autophagic flux by enhancing lysosome biogenesis, forming autophagosomes, and fusion with lysosomes, thereby facilitating cellular clearance of pathogenic protein structures. Curcumin is a natural polyphenolic molecule with pharmacological properties that make it a potential therapeutic candidate for a wide range of diseases. One of the important curcumin mechanisms of action includes modulation of autophagy through affecting various signaling components such as TFEB. This review discusses in vitro and in vivo evidence on the effects of curcumin on autophagy process via modulating TFEB activity in different disorders.