Work

Mechanistic insights into curcumin’s role in modulating autophagy and redox imbalance in experimentally induced MASH

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Background: Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH) is characterized by steatosis, inflammation, and fibrosis. Currently, no approved pharmacological treatment exists. Curcumin has shown potential therapeutic benefits, but its underlying mechanisms remain poorly understood.Aim: This study evaluates curcumin’s role in ameliorating MASH in a high-fat diet (HFD)-induced rat model, focusing on endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress, apoptosis, autophagy, and oxidative stress. Histological changes were also evaluated.Methods: Male rats were divided into control, MASH, and curcumin-treated MASH groups. Serum and hepatic biomarkers were analyzed including CCAAT/enhancer-binding protein homologous protein (CHOP), Bax, Bcl-2, and Beclin 1. Liver tissues were examined histologically.Results: Curcumin significantly downregulated protein kinase RNA-like endoplasmic reticulum kinase (PERK) and CHOP expression, restored Beclin-1 levels, reduced oxidative stress, and improved Bax/Bcl-2 ratios. Histological analysis confirmed reduced steatosis, and fibrosis.Conclusion: Curcumin alleviates MASH by modulating ER stress, oxidative stress, apoptosis, and autophagy, highlighting its therapeutic potential. Further clinical studies are needed.

Source: Journal of Taibah University for Science

DOI: 10.1080/16583655.2025.2467479

Authors: Eman A. Elkordy, Soha S. Zakaria, Khalid I. AlHussaini, Naglaa I. Sarhan

Institutions: Imam Mohammad ibn Saud Islamic University, Tanta University

Language: English

Topic: Curcumin's Biomedical Applications

Subfield: Molecular Medicine

Field: Biochemistry, Genetics and Molecular Biology

Domain: Life Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $944