Applications of Curcumin in the Treatment of Prostate Cancer

A polyphenolic compound curcumin, which is extracted from turmeric, has been proven to have dual effects of inhibiting tumor cell proliferation and inducing apoptosis. Prostate Cancer (PCa) which in the male urinary and reproductive systems was recognized as the most common malignant tumors, seriously affects men's daily lives. At present, there is still a lack of highly effective and low-side-effect clinical drugs. Current research indicates that curcumin significantly stops the PCa from growing by regulating miRNA and key enzyme activities, controlling the androgen receptor (AR) signaling pathway. Particularly, nanocarrier technology can greatly enhance its bioavailability and targeting. However, the current research still lacks large-scale clinical validation, standardized dosing regimens, and the ability to overcome the problem of its low bioavailability. This article systematically reviews the research progress on the molecular mechanism of curcumin in the prevention and treatment of PCa and the clinical efficacy data, providing a basic direction and feasibility for future research, and also creating a mechanistic blueprint to guide drug development against PCa.