Kirandeep Kaur

Modification of curcumin and investigation of its bioactivity

Traditionally used in Asian countries as a medicinal herb for the promotion of blood and pain relief, turmeric (Curcuma longa) has received much interest over the last few decades due to its medicinal properties. Curcumin, a major polyphenol compound in turmeric, exhibits antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimutagenic, antimicrobial, and anticancer properties and is suggested to be responsible for the observed medicinal properties of turmeric.

Curcumin has however shown poor water solubility and bioavailability. The aim of this project is to modify the hydroxyl groups of curcumin, and test for changes in its solubility and the effects of these modifications to its bioavailability and bioactivity. Molecular mechanisms of action will also be performed on the modified compound.

Supervisors:

Professor Chun Guang Li; Dr Feng Li; Dr Deep Bhuyan