Role of Curcumin in Prevention and Treatment of Colorectal Cancer: The Mechanisms

Colorectal cancer is the fourth common cancer and third cause of death due to cancer in the world. Chemotherapy plus surgery are the routine methods in treatment of colorectal cancer. Cytotoxic drugs such as 5-fluorouracil, ograliplatin, and leukoverin in treating colorectal cancer have several side effects for patients. On the other hand, finding new components to improve drug responsiveness, reduce drug dosage and therefore, reduce side effects of chemotherapy are important. Curcumin is a substance of plant origin with antioxidative, anti-inflammatory, and antibacterial properties. In addition, it has antitumor effects in preclinical, and phases I and II clinical studies in various cancers such as prostate, breast, colon, and pancreas. The results of these studies indicated the efficacy, more tolerance among patients, and improving the quality of life. In this article, we reviewed the role of curcumin in colorectal cancer and the involved mechanisms.