Curcumin as a Promising Therapy for COVID-19: A Review

INTRODUCTION

COVID-19 is a serious respiratory illness with potential for multisystem involvement caused by SARS-CoV-2. It emerged as a pandemic in December 2019 and still continues to pose a significant challenge to healthcare systems globally.^[1] COVID-19 has been a substantial burden on the healthcare infrastructure, leading to overwhelmed hospitals, increased mortality rates, and economic disruptions.^[1] SARS-CoV-2 infects the respiratory system, and various approaches, such as vaccination, development of new therapies, and repurposing of existing therapeutics, have been employed. However, effective medications to diminish and control the disease without significant adverse effects are not yet available.

Curcumin, a polyphenolic compound obtained from turmeric, has been extensively explored for its anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antioxidant, and immunomodulatory activities.^[2,3] Since alteration of cytokine response, immune dysfunction, and excessive inflammation play a key role in SARS-CoV-2 pathogenesis, curcumin could be beneficial in combating COVID-19.^[2] In addition, curcumin exhibits antiviral activity and inhibits the replication of certain viruses.^[4] The rationale for the exploration of curcumin as a promising therapy for COVID-19 has been discussed here in light of the currently available research evidence.

MOLECULAR MECHANISMS OF COVID-19 PATHOGENESIS

SARS-CoV-2 primarily infects pneumocytes through the interaction of viral S-protein with the angiotensin-converting enzyme2 (ACE2) on host cells.^[5] A cell surface transmembrane protease (TMPRSS2) and a metalloprotease (ADAM17) facilitate the fusion of the SARS-CoV-2 envelope with the host cell membrane. TMPRSS2 cleaves S-protein, leading to its change in conformation.^[6] After clathrin-mediated endocytosis, the virus-containing vacuoles undergo acidification and subsequent fusion with endosomes/lysosomes. The viral genome escapes from the vacuole into the cytoplasm through protein pores formed by viral proteins that have undergone conformational changes in an acidic milieu. The replication transcription complex is made by viral nonstructural proteins, and SARS-CoV-2 genome replication starts. The viral enzymes, namely, 3C-like protease (3CLpro) and papain-like protease (PLpro), are important for replication by facilitating proteolytic cleavage. After assembly, new virions are released through exocytosis.

On infection, the immune system mounts a multifaceted response involving innate and adaptive immune cells. The innate immune response includes activation of macrophages, natural killer (NK), and dendritic cells, which recognize the products of virus and damaged host cells, namely, microbe-associated molecular patterns (MAMPs) and damage-associated molecular patterns (DAMPs) through their pattern recognition receptors (PRR). Pro-inflammatory cytokines, such as interleukin-6 (IL-6), interleukin-1β (IL-1β), and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), are secreted from these immune cells.^[7] Cytokines have a pivotal function in orchestrating the immune response. Nevertheless, in certain instances, an excessive immune response can emerge, resulting in a cytokine storm marked by the excessive production of pro-inflammatory cytokines causing systemic inflammation, tissue damage, endothelial damage, activation of coagulation cascade, hypercoagulability, and multiorgan failure.^[8,9] Comprehending the intricate relationship of SARS-CoV-2, inflammation, and cytokine storm is vital for crafting specific therapeutic approaches for COVID-19.

CURCUMIN: SOURCE, PROPERTIES, AND MECHANISMS OF ACTION

Curcumin, is a biological compound of polyphenolic class obtained from Curcuma longa rhizome, commonly known as turmeric. Turmeric has been utilized in Ayurveda for centuries in the Indian subcontinent.^[10] It possesses various bioactive properties, including anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antimicrobial, and antineoplastic effects.^[10,11] It has been the focus of research to a great extent for its pharmacological properties and its applications in diseases, including cancer, cardiovascular diseases, neurodegenerative disorders, and viral infections.^[10,11]

Curcumin applies anti-inflammatory effects through multiple mechanisms. It inhibits the activity of nuclear factor-kappa B, a key transcription factor involved in the liberation of pro-inflammatory cytokines.^[12] In addition, curcumin modulates various signaling pathways of inflammation, including MAP kinases and JAK/STAT pathways.^[10] Moreover, curcumin possesses immunomodulatory properties by controlling the equilibrium between pro and anti-inflammatory cytokines. It can suppress pro-inflammatory cytokines, such as IL-1β, TNF-α, and IL-6, while enhancing the production of anti-inflammatory cytokines, including IL-10.^[13,14]

Curcumin has demonstrated promising antiviral effects against various viral pathogens by targeting stages of viral replication. These antiviral properties are attributed to its ability to target multiple molecular pathways in virus replication and host immune responses. It can directly interfere with viral attachment and cell entry, disrupt viral replication, inhibit viral proteases, and modulate host immune responses against viral infections.^[4,15] Moreover, curcumin has demonstrated antiviral action against enveloped viruses such as herpes simplex virus, dengue virus, influenza, and respiratory syncytial virus, and non-enveloped viruses such as norovirus and enterovirus.^[15,16]

MECHANISMS OF ANTIVIRAL ACTION OF CURCUMIN AGAINST SARS-COV-2

Curcumin displays unique mechanisms of antiviral action against SARS-CoV-2, affecting each phase in the replicative cycle of the virus in the host cell [Figure 1]. Pertaining to its superior binding capability to cell surface ACE2 and viral S-protein, curcumin interferes with SARS-CoV-2 adherence and entry into host cells. TMPRSS2 and ADAM17 are the essential enzymes mediating the fusion of viral envelopes with cell membranes during viral entry. Curcumin also shows a grea t propensity to bind with these two enzymes, thereby inhibiting them. Furthermore, pulmonary fibrosis, acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), and lung injury of COVID-19 are related to dysregulation of the renin–angiotensin–aldosterone system.^[17] SARS-CoV-2 downregulates ACE2 in pulmonary tissue and, thereby, shifts the balance toward the ACE-angiotensin II-AT1R axis over the ACE2-Ang1-7-MasR axis. This leads to endothelial injury, prothrombotic state, pulmonary fibrosis, and ARDS. Curcumin increases soluble ACE2, which binds with SARS-CoV-2 competitively, minimizing its access to cell surface ACE2. This not only leads to reduced host cell infection but also restores cellular ACE2 activity, which is essential for maintaining a balance of the renin-angiotensin system.^[18] Apoptosis and release of lysosomal enzymes give rise to greater inflammatory damage in COVID-19. Unlike cancer cells, curcumin prevents apoptosis and autophagy in SARS-CoV-2-infected pneumocytes by inhibiting caspase-3 activation. Curcumin stabilizes the virus-containing vacuole membrane, impedes the fusion with lysosomes, and minimizes the extent of viral replication. SARS-CoV-2 protein translation is also impeded by curcumin as it binds and inhibits viral enzymes, such as 3CLpro and PLpro.

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Figure 1:

Mechanisms of biological actions of curcumin in COVID-19. ACE2: Angiotensin-converting enzyme 2, TMPRSS2: Transmembrane serine protease 2, ADAM17: A desintegrin and metalloproteinase domain 17, TLR: Toll-like receptor, ROS: Reactive oxygen species, ARDS: Adult respiratory distress syndrome, DIC: Disseminated intravascular coagulation, RAS: Renin-angiotensin system.

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Curcumin’s immunomodulatory properties are implicated in its potential role in defending against SARS-CoV-2. Innate immune cells such as macrophages, NK cells, and dendritic cells recognize the molecular patterns (MAMPs and DAMPs) associated with virus and virus-infected cells through their PRR such as Toll-like receptors (TLR) and contribute to inflammation by producing pro-inflammatory cytokines. Curcumin inhibits TLR2, TLR4, and TLR9, reducing the secretion of inflammatory cytokines such as INF-α and TNF-α. Furthermore, curcumin blocks CD2/CD3/CD28-initiated helper CD4+ T-cell activation and NFAT-regulated expression of cytokines. Reactive oxygen species (ROSs) are generated by neutrophils through oxidative metabolism. These molecules damage cellular structures and DNA as a part of inflammation. Curcumin upregulates the generation of catalase, superoxide dismutase, glutathione-S-transferase, etc. ROS scavenging enzymes and prevents the progression of inflammatory damage to host cells and macromolecules. This multipronged inhibition reducing cytokine production from T lymphocytes, macrophages, NK cells, dendritic cells, and reducing macromolecule damage by ROS opens the prospect for curcumin to be used in COVID-19 treatment to mitigate cytokine storm and inflammation.

IN VITRO STUDIES ON ACTIONS OF CURCUMIN ON SARS-COV-2

Various in vitro studies have investigated curcumin’s biological effects on SARS-CoV-2.^[19-22] These studies have explored curcumin’s actions on SARS-CoV-2 entry, replication, viral load, cytokine profile, immune cells, and inflammation [Table 1]. In one study, curcumin suppressed entry of Omicron variant SARS-CoV-2 through disrupting the Omicron S-protein - hACE2 complex.^[19] The authors studied seven phytochemicals and found that curcumin had the greatest capacity to counter Omicron S-protein due to its stable binding. Besides ACE2, glucose-regulating protein 78 (GRP78) is another cell-surface receptor implicated in SARS-CoV-2 cell entry. Allam et al. (2020) observed that curcumin could block GRP78-dependent cell entry as it binds with the S-protein binding site and ATPase site of GRP78.^[20] Furthermore, in their study, Guijarro-Real et al. (2021) demonstrated that extracts from turmeric rhizomes effectively inhibited 3CLpro, an essential enzyme for SARS-CoV-2 replication in host cells.^[21] However, the inhibitory action of commercial curcumin was lower in comparison to the extract, indicating the potential presence of other bioactive components of turmeric rhizomes, which might have suppressed SARS-CoV-2 replication. Yet, another study identified that curcumin remarkably neutralized SARS-CoV-2 in human Calu-3 and Vero E6 cells.^[22] Moreover, curcumin has shown potential in modulating the host immune response during SARS-CoV-2 infection. It repressed inflammatory chemokines, namely, TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6, thereby attenuating cytokine storm associated with COVID-19 complications.^[14]

EVALUATION OF CURCUMIN’S EFFECTS IN COVID-19 USING ANIMAL MODELS

Curcumin’s capacity for immunomodulation is an essential attribute that holds promise for improving treatment outcomes for COVID-19 [Table 1]. The activity of curcumin concerning cytokine profile and hepatic fibrosis has been explored in experimentally induced hepatic cirrhosis models in rats.^[23] A substantial increase in IL-10, an anti-inflammatory mediator, along with a marked reduction in hepatic fibrosis and pro-inflammatory TNF-α and transforming growth factor 1 beta (TGF-1β), was observed in curcumin-treated animal groups as compared to the control group. Curcumin’s anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory action was noted in another study utilizing an intestinal inflammation model in mice.^[24] Curcumin supplementation was associated with an increase in Treg cells, enhanced ileal epithelial cell regeneration, restoration of the beneficial intestinal microbiome, and repression of TNF-α, interferon-gamma (IFN-γ), IL-6, IL-23p19, and monocyte chemoattractant protein-1.^[24] ARDS is a rapidly developing, life-threatening pulmonary disorder characterized by the leakage of fluid into the alveolar space pertaining to direct lung injury, inflammation, or systemic factors. ARDS is a sequelae of severe COVID-19 and a major contributing factor to mortality. Curcumin significantly alleviated lung pathology and diminished the extent of inflammatory chemokines in the murine model of ARDS.^[25] The authors also demonstrated that differentiation from naive T-cells to Treg cells, differentiation of M2 macrophages, and IL-10 secretion was stimulated by curcumin.

CLINICAL TRIALS ON CURCUMIN THERAPEUTIC INTERVENTION FOR COVID-19

Although insufficient in number, clinical trials have yielded valuable evidence regarding the potential therapeutic efficacy of curcumin in managing COVID-19 [Table 1]. In a clinical trial, oral curcumin and piperine supplementation was found to significantly decrease the duration and intensity of symptoms among COVID-19 patients in contrast to a placebo group.^[26] Curcumin-treated patients had early recovery, shorter hospital stays, and regularly maintained more than 94% oxygen saturation on room air. While the anti-inflammatory properties of curcumin accelerated the recovery from COVID-19, its antimicrobial properties reduced secondary bacterial and fungal infections.^[26] In another clinical trial, Askari et al. (2022) assessed the effectiveness of 500 mg curcumin with 5 mg piperine in twice daily dosage for two weeks on the duration, severity, symptoms, and inflammatory indices in COVID-19 patients.^[27] A significant reduction in weakness among the patients in the treatment group was observed when compared to those in the placebo group. A clinical trial conducted by Valizadeh et al. (2020), studied nanocurcumin’s immunomodulatory effects in terms of expression of cytokines in COVID patients.^[2] Nanocurcumin is a formulation in which curcumin is nano-encapsulated or processed into nanoparticles to enhance solubility, stability, bioavailability, and cellular uptake. A notable reduction in expression and synthesis of IL-6 and IL-1β was documented in the COVID-19 group following therapy with nano curcumin.^[2] Similar evidence was obtained with nano curcumin in other clinical trials. Asadirad et al. (2022), identified a substantial decrease in the expression as well as blood levels of IFN-γ, IL-1β, and IL-6 in the nanocurcumin-treated group as compared to the control group.^[28] Hassaniazad et al. (2021), reported a marked decline in TBX21 gene expression as well as serum levels of IFN-γ and IL-17, and an increase in FOXP3 gene expressions and serum levels of IL-4 and TGF-β were noted in the nanocurcumin group after 14 days of therapy.^[29] These clinical trials support the potential therapeutic value of curcumin and its formulations in COVID-19 management, emphasizing its ability to improve symptoms, reduce inflammatory markers, and enhance patient outcomes. However, large-scale clinical trials are warranted to validate these findings and establish optimal dosage and treatment protocols for curcumin in COVID-19 patients.

LIMITATIONS OF CURRENT STUDIES ON CURCUMIN AND COVID-19

Despite the promising findings of the studies I reviewed, there are several limitations. First, the majority of studies available are in vitro or animal model studies, which may not fully reflect the complex pathophysiology of human disease.^[26] In addition, there is a lack of standardized protocols regarding curcumin dosage, formulation, and treatment duration, making it challenging to compare results across different studies.^[27] Furthermore, curcumin’s limited bioavailability remains a significant hurdle, as its limited gastrointestinal absorption and rapid metabolism may compromise its therapeutic potential.^[30] Finally, most of the studies conducted thus far have focused on curcumin’s anti-inflammatory and antiviral effects, whereas its potential interactions with other drugs or therapies commonly used in COVID-19 treatment have not been extensively explored.

CHALLENGES IN CLINICAL APPLICABILITY

Curcumin exhibits poor bioavailability, and this attribute limits its therapeutic efficacy. Its metabolism may vary among individuals. Several approaches have been investigated to augment the bioavailability of curcumin. One approach is the use of adjuvants such as Piperine, a bioenhancer derived from black pepper.^[31] Another strategy is using lipid-based systems, such as nanoemulsions or liposomes. These formulations enhance curcumin’s solubility and also improve bioavailability and tissue distribution.^[32] In addition, the encapsulation of curcumin in nanoparticles, such as polymeric nanoparticles or lipid nanoparticles, can protect it from degradation and facilitate targeted delivery.^[30]

Curcumin is generally considered safe with a low toxicity profile. Studies have reported no significant adverse effects associated with curcumin administration, even at high doses.^[33] Some studies reported mild and transient nausea, diarrhea, and abdominal discomfort, following curcumin supplementation.^[10] In addition, curcumin possesses antiplatelet activity and may interfere with blood clotting mechanisms.^[34] Therefore, it should be used with caution in individuals taking anticoagulants or patients with bleeding disorders. When considering curcumin as a therapeutic intervention, it is imperative to be aware of its interactions with other medications. Curcumin modulates various cellular pathways and enzymes involved in drug metabolism, such as cytochrome P450 enzymes, P-glycoprotein, and UDP-glucuronosyltransferases.^[35,36]

CONCLUSION

It is evident from the in vitro studies, animal models, and human clinical trials that curcumin displays potent antiviral, anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, and anti-fibrotic effects and thereby can play a critical role in mitigating SARS-CoV-2 treatment. However, several avenues for future research and investigation remain. First, clinical trials with larger sample sizes and diverse populations are warranted to establish the efficacy, optimal dosage, and treatment duration. Comprehensive studies are needed to explore the interactions of curcumin with other commonly used therapeutic agents in COVID-19 management. Studies on the long-term safety and adverse effects of curcumin in COVID-19 patients are indispensable to ensure its clinical applicability. Investigating the molecular mechanisms of curcumin’s antiviral activity can provide insights to develop novel antiviral strategies. The use of curcumin nanosystems holds promise by enhancing its bioavailability and targeted delivery to specific tissues or organs. Finally, investigations into the function of curcumin in post-COVID-19 complications, such as long-term COVID-19 and persistent inflammation, can provide valuable insights into its potential preventive and therapeutic effects. Overall, future research should aim to address these gaps and further explore the therapeutic prospective of curcumin in COVID-19.