Scientists to look at ways of using turmeric to prevent and treat cancer

Scientists from Brighton University have been awarded a grant of £148,600 to find new ways of using the spice turmeric to prevent and treat cancer.

They will be working with fellow scientists in Vietnam where the climate and soil on higher ground is ideal for cultivating Curcuma longa from which turmeric is derived. The bright yellow spice is used in cooking in India and south Asia as well as in traditional Chinese and Indian medicine.

A number of laboratory studies on cancer cells have shown that curcumin, which is the main active ingredient in turmeric, does have anti-cancer properties. It seems to be able to kill cancer cells and prevent more from growing and seems to be particularly effective on breast cancer, bowel cancer, stomach cancer and skin cancer cells.

Members of the Brighton University’s drug delivery research group, Professor John Smart and Dr Ananth Pannala, will work with the Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology on formulating curcumin preparations which will be manufactured in Vietnam and marketed globally.

Professor Smart said: “Curcumin has anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory activities and has been used for the prevention and treatment of cancer, diabetes, neurodegeneration and cardiovascular disease.

“It is poorly absorbed when given as a tablet or capsule, its limited solubility being a major factor. This work will develop a curcumin-containing tablet or capsule using soluble carriers or dispersible oils that are acceptable, stable and optimise bioavailability.

“These will be required to be manufactured sustainably within Vietnam, using locally available materials. The project will last two years and will include regular visits to Vietnam to develop the collaboration.”

The funding has come from the Newton Institutional Links, part of the UK’s official development assistance programme and which provides grants for the development of research and innovation collaborations between the UK and partner countries.

UK Foreign Secretary, Philip Hammond, discussed the university’s involvement in the project on a recent visit to the Vietnam Academy.