Therapeutic activities and biological effects of curcumin, as a natural multi-target compound, on human health: A minireview

Background and aims: Curcumin or diferuloylmethane is derived from ferulic acid. This herbal compound has a particular chemical structure and various biological/medical properties. The functional groups in the curcumin structure and its analogs are involved in the formation of specific biological activities. This natural compound has high bioactivity, as well as the potential to treat diseases such as cancer, Alzheimer’s, diabetes, and severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). Considering the spread of infectious diseases and cancers in recent years, as well as an increase in drug resistance and side effects, providing effective and available treatments is necessary. Methods: This review explained the chemical structure of curcumin and covered its biological properties, including anti-inflammation, antioxidant, anti-cancer, neuroprotective, anti-diabetic, and anti-SARS-CoV-2 activities. Scientific databases were studied to gather the required information. Results: Curcumin affected several molecular pathways, including activating transcription factors, cell growth factors, anti-inflammatory agents, protein kinases, cytokines, and apoptotic pathway factors. Thus, it had beneficial therapeutic effects on health. Conclusion: By targeting a wide range of molecular mechanisms, curcumin has the potential to treat various diseases. Knowledge of curcumin’s pharmacological/biological activities and its action mechanisms can enhance the applications of curcumin as a potentially bioactive and therapeutic compound.