Molecular targets of curcumin for cancer therapy: An updated review

In recent years, natural edible products have been found to be important therapeutic agents for the treatment of chronic human diseases including cancer, cardiovascular disease, and neurodegeneration. Curcumin is a well-known diarylheptanoid constituent of turmeric which possesses anticancer effects under both pre-clinical and clinical conditions. Moreover, it is well known that the anticancer effects of curcumin are primarily due to the activation of apoptotic pathways in the cancer cells as well as inhibition of tumor microenvironments like inflammation, angiogenesis, and tumor metastasis. In particular, extensive studies have demonstrated that curcumin targets numerous therapeutically important cancer signaling pathways such as p53, Ras, PI3K, AKT, Wnt-β catenin, mTOR and so on. Clinical studies also suggested that either curcumin alone or as combination with other drugs possess promising anticancer effect in cancer patients without causing any adverse effects. In this article, we critically review the available scientific evidence on the molecular targets of curcumin for the treatment of different types of cancer. In addition, we also discuss its chemistry, sources, bioavailability, and future research directions. © International Society of Oncology and BioMarkers (ISOBM) 2016

Targeting mTOR signaling by polyphenols: A new therapeutic target for ageing

Current ageing research is aimed not only at the promotion of longevity, but also at improving �health span� through the� discovery and development� of new therapeutic strategies��� by investigating �molecular and �cellular �pathways involved in cellular senescence.� Understanding the mechanism of action �of �polyphenolic compounds targeting mTOR (mechanistic target of rapamycin) and related pathways opens up new directions ��to revolutionize ways to slow down the �onset and development of age-dependent degeneration. Herein, we will �discuss the mechanisms by which polyphenols can delay the� molecular �pathogenesis of ageing via manipulation or more specifically inhibition of mTOR-signaling pathways. We will also discuss the implications of polyphenols in targeting mTOR and its related �pathways�� on �health life span extension and longevity.� © 2016 Elsevier B.V