LEICESTER, United Kingdom—Researchers at the University of Leicester are investigating the colorectal cancer-fighting potential of the curcumin, an extract of the common curry spice turmeric. Colon cancer is the third leading cause of cancer deaths in the western world.
The research, funded by Hope Against Cancer, will lead to a better understanding of the mechanisms through which curcumin targets resistant cells in tumors. It also may help identify patient populations who are most likely to benefit from curcumin treatment in the future.
Researchers are using actual tissue from tumors extracted from patients undergoing surgery. The aim is use tissue from the colorectal tumors to effectively target chemo-resistant cells using curcumin.
“Following treatment for cancer, small populations of cancer cells often remain which are responsible for disease returning. These cells appear to have different properties to the bulk of cells within a tumor, making them resistant to chemotherapy," said Dr. Karen Brown, principal investigator. “Previous laboratory research has shown that curcumin, from turmeric, has not only improved the effectiveness of chemotherapy but has also reduced the number of chemo-resistant cells which has implications in preventing the disease returning."
