CHEMBL5735249

Inhibition of MMPs: It has been observed that 50 and 100 μM concentrations of curcumin decreased TNFα production by endotoxin-stimulated human monocytes (HMs) in culture by 80-90% (lower concentrations of curcumin, 10 and 20 μM, had no effect). However, this inhibitory effect was associated with some precipitation of the curcumin in cell culture and with significant cytotoxicity. It was hypothesized that increasing the solubility of curcumin will: (i) enhance its efficacy as an inhibitor of cytokine expression, (ii) reduce its cytotoxicity, and (iii) preserve (perhaps even enhance; see below) its potency, as an MMP inhibitor (MMPI) compound, which was found to be similar to that of the Zn++ chelating compound, 1,10-O-phenanthroline (FIG. 1). However, it should be noted that excessive inhibition of MMP activity may not be desirable therapeutically because a minimal, or basal, level of MMPs may be necessary for optimal defense of the host.