ABSTRACT
Neurodegenerative diseases are disabling chronic disorders characterized by the progressive loss of neurons in different areas of the central nervous system. Curcumin administration to neurodegenerative disease models by nanoparticles has been realized using liposomes, solid lipid nanoparticles, and polymeric particles. Delivery by other carriers such as amphiphilic proteins is also possible, but has not been examined as a means of transporting curcumin across the blood–brain barrier towards neuro-regeneration. Lipid-based nanoparticles, including solid lipid nanoparticles, nanostructured lipid carriers, liposomes and liquid crystalline nanocarriers, as well as polymer-based nanoparticles, have been developed to overcome the poor solubility, stability, and bioavailability of curcumin, and to promote its utilization as a drug in disease treatments. Curcumin has been reported to be well tolerated at doses up to 8 g per day over short periods in humans. Research on the pharmacological activities of curcumin has attracted strong attention in relation to its multiple actions of therapeutic interest.
