Kulbhushan Tikoo (sitting) with co-researchers
Curcumin plays a role in modifying the histones (proteins that wrap up DNA to form chromatin), in turn bolstering the anti-oxidant defense system of the body, an epigenetic study on rats has concluded.
A research team from the National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research (NIPER), Punjab, designed a series of experiments to unravel this protective effect of curcumin. "Curcumin has been used to treat cancer, diabetes and other pathologies. However, little was known regarding its role in bringing about change in histone H3," says lead researcher Kulbhushan Tikoo.
In diabetes, there are changes in the 'histone code' which result in modifying gene expression and lead to the major microvascular complication — diabetic nephropathy. Curcumin was found to decrease the oxidative stress by boosting the anti-oxidant defense system of the body and improving biochemical alterations that resulted in better health.
The team underpinned the role of histone code acting as a prelude to the disease progression and development. The finding could have implications in drug design and developmental programmes targeting diabetes and its complications.
