Investigation of the Effects of Curcumin on Serum Cytokines in Obese Individuals: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Abstract EN

Background.

Obesity is a disorder often accompanied by a heightened state of systemic inflammation and immunoactivation.

The present randomized crossover trial aimed to investigate the efficacy of curcumin, a bioactive polyphenol with established anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects, on the serum levels of a panel of cytokines and mediators in obese individuals.

Methods.

Thirty obese individuals were randomized to receive curcumin at a daily dose of 1 g or a matched placebo for 4 weeks.

Following a 2-week wash-out period, each group was assigned to the alternate treatment regimen for another 4 weeks.

Serum samples were collected at the start and end of each study period.

Serum levels of IL-1α, IL-1β, IL-2, IL-4, IL-6, IL-8, IL-10, VEGF, IFNγ, EGF, MCP-1, and TNFα were measured using a multiplex Biochip Array Technology based method.

Results.

Mean serum IL-1β ( P = 0.042 ), IL-4 ( P = 0.008 ), and VEGF ( P = 0.01 ) were found to be significantly reduced by curcumin therapy.

In contrast, no significant difference was observed in the concentrations of IL-2, IL-6, IL-8, IL-10, IFNγ, EGF, and MCP-1.

Conclusions.

The findings of the present trial suggested that curcumin may exert immunomodulatory effects via altering the circulating concentrations of IL-1β, IL-4, and VEGF.