SUMMARY
This technology comprises two novel curcumin derivatives - compounds D3 and D4 - with potent anti-inflammatory properties. These compounds effectively inhibit a key inflammatory signaling pathway, offering enhanced therapeutic potential over traditional curcumin. The technology provides improved bioactive compounds for nutraceutical and pharmaceutical applications targeting inflammatory conditions.
ADDRESSED NEED
Current anti-inflammatory compounds face several limitations in treating chronic inflammation, including bioavailability, potency, and therapeutic effectiveness. Traditional curcumin, while promising, has poor absorption and limited efficacy in clinical applications. To address these challenges, Vanderbilt researchers have identified novel curcumin derivatives with enhanced anti-inflammatory activity and improved therapeutic potential. The compounds are created by degrading curcumin, including a controlled pyrolysis process that simulates the natural cooking methods used during food preparation. Compounds D3 and D4 represent novel discoveries with significant commercial potential. The technology offers a pathway to develop enhanced nutraceuticals and therapeutic agents with superior anti-inflammatory efficacy.
KEY BENEFITS
TECHNOLOGY FEATURES
OTHER DETAILS
Intellectual Property Status: U.S. patent application filed.
Stage of Development: Proof-of-concept; ongoing chemical characterization and advancing toward bioavailability and efficacy testing.
Left: Two bioactive compounds were derived from fractionation of curcumin, an anti-inflammatory component of turmeric. Right: The derived compounds have more potent anti-inflammatory properties than curcumin.