HEPATOPROTECTIVE EFFECTS OF CURCUMIN IN NON-ALCOHOLIC FATTY LIVER DISEASE: MECHANISMS AND CLINICAL EVIDENCE
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.56238/arev7n12-349Keywords:
Curcumin, NAFLD, Hepatoprotection, Inflammation, Oxidative StressAbstract
Curcumin, the primary bioactive compound of Curcuma longa, exhibits anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties with therapeutic potential in non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). This article reviews its mechanisms of action and clinical evidence as a hepatoprotective agent. Curcumin modulates inflammatory pathways by suppressing pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α) and activating pathways such as TLR4/NF-κB and AMPK, reducing oxidative stress and hepatic inflammation. Studies indicate that curcumin supplementation improves metabolic parameters, including waist circumference and triglycerides, while also reducing liver fibrosis. However, its effect on liver enzymes is variable, and its low bioavailability limits clinical efficacy. Curcumin demonstrates promising hepatoprotective effects in NAFLD, primarily through the modulation of inflammation and lipid metabolism. Nevertheless, further research is needed to overcome challenges such as bioavailability and to establish optimized therapeutic protocols.
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