The Synergistic Role of Curcuma Longa Extract and Resveratrol Against Induced Colorectal Tumor in Rats

Background: Colon cancer is considered one of the most common cancer types in both sexes according to the latest reports. The current research tends focus on gen-targeted therapies. Objectives: The current study aims to investigate the protective effects of Curcuma longa extract and resveratrol, individually and in combination, against 1,2-dimethylhydrazine (DMH)-induced colorectal cancer in female rats, with a particular focus on their influence on KRAS gene expression and histopathological alterations. Methods: Forty female albino rats were randomly divided into five groups (n = 8 per group): G1 (control), G2 (DMH only), G3 (DMH + Curcuma longa), G4 (DMH + Curcuma longa + resveratrol), and G5 (DMH + resveratrol). Colorectal cancer was induced by DMH administration, followed by daily oral treatments for 16 weeks. At the end of the experiment, colorectal tissues were collected for molecular analysis of KRAS expression using RT-qPCR and for histopathological and immunohistochemical evaluation. Results: Rats in the DMH group (G2) exhibited marked overexpression of KRAS and severe histopathological changes consistent with colorectal carcinoma. Treatment with Curcuma longa (G3) and resveratrol (G5) significantly reduced KRAS expression and ameliorated tissue alterations, while the combined treatment (G4) demonstrated the greatest protective effect, showing near-normal architecture and the lowest KRAS expression levels Conclusion: Curcuma longa and resveratrol exert protective effects against DMH-induced colorectal carcinogenesis by downregulating KRAS expression and improving tissue integrity. Their combined use produced synergistic effects, highlighting their potential as complementary chemo-preventive agents in colorectal cancer management.