Curcumin Encapsulated PEGylated Nanoliposomes: A Potential Anti-Infective Therapeutic Agent

Indian J Microbiol. 2019 Sep;59(3):336-343. doi: 10.1007/s12088-019-00811-3. Epub 2019 Jun 7.

Abstract

Exploration of novel bioactive molecules or potentiation of the existing bioactive molecules is necessary to reduce the burden of the infectious diseases for the better human health. Curcumin is a promising molecule with huge therapeutic potential. Despite high bioactivity, its therapeutic suitability is shadowed by poor bioavailability, limited aqueous solubility, and short shelf life. Nanotechnology has generated new avenues to overcome these challenges. In the current study polymer assisted nanoliposomes, PEGylated Curcumin nanoliposomes with good loading efficiency were prepared. These particles have shown 1000 fold enhanced curcumin hydrophilicity and tenfold higher stability. In vitro release kinetic indicates two fold higher curcumin release in the simulated gastric and intestinal environment. Various bioactivity assays have confirmed enhanced bioactivity of nanocurcmin in comparison of the native curcumin. PEGylated Curcumin nanoliposomes could be employed for treating various diseases.

Keywords: Antibacterial; Antifungal; Antioxidant; Bioactive; Curcumin; Nanoliposomes; Quorum sensing inhibitors.