Curcumin targeting oxidative mediators for therapeutic effects in diabetes and its related complications

Abstract

DIABETES mellitus is a multifactorial chronic metabolic disorder characterized by altered metabolism of macro – nutrients such fats, proteins and carbohydrates associated with disturbances in insulin activity. Diabetes mellitus complications include, diabetic retinopathy, diabetic cardiomyopathy, diabetic encephalopathy, diabetic periodontitis and diabetic nephropathy. These complications are mostly induced by inflammatory and oxidative mediators. Curcumin is a polyphenol extracted from turmeric and it is well known for its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and antiapoptotic activities. It effectively targets oxidative mediators in diabetes mellitus through regulation of several signaling pathways. Insulin resistance is commonly caused due to impairment in the signaling pathways related to insulin and the target tissues pose lesser or no response to circulating insulin. Curcumin is a potent therapeutic agent that targets oxidative stress mediators in diabetes mellitus and its resistant version leading to favorable therapeutic outcomes in diabetes complications. This review has thrown sufficient light on the therapeutic potential of curcumin targeting oxidative mediators in diabetes and its related complications.