Curcumin suppresses pro-inflammatory adhesion response in Human Umbilical Vein Endothelial Cells

Atherosclerosis, a progressive pathological disorder, is a leading cause of human morbidity and mortality worldwide. The expression of cell adhesion molecules by the endothelium and the attachment of monocytes to endothelium may play a pivotal role in the early atherogenic process. Curcumin, a polyphenol obtained from the root of turmeric, is the main component of curry powder. Previous studies indicated that curcumin exhibits a variety of pharmacological effects, including anti-inflammatory, antitumor, antioxidant, and anti-hypertensive properties. In the current study, we found that curcumin could suppress the IL-1β-induced intracellular reactive oxygen species production and the activation of redox-sensitive transcription factors NF-κB p50 and p65. Moreover, curcumin could inhibit the expression of adhesion molecules, including intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1), vascular cell adhesion molecule-1 (VCAM-1), and E-selectin, and further decrease the adhesiveness to a human monocytic cell line (U937) in human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs). These findings may identify the novel role and potential translational application of curcumin, suggesting its potential applicability as an anti-atherosclerotic agent. Practical applications In the current study, we examine the inhibitory effects of curcumin on monocyte adhesion to cultured human endothelial cells and the expression of adhesion molecules by IL-1β in HUVECs and elucidate its possible mechanism of action. Our findings may identify the novel role and potential translational application of curcumin, suggesting its potential applicability as an anti-atherosclerotic agent.