Delivery of curcumin in a carboxymethyl cellulose and hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose carrier: Physicochemical properties and biological activity

Curcumin solid dispersions (Cur SDs) were prepared using hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose (HPMC) and sodium carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) at different dosages. The results of Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and Raman spectroscopy showed that the characteristic peak of curcumin shifted, and the addition of CMC enhanced this phenomenon. The addition of CMC reduced the contact angle, increased the surface free energy, and improved the solubility of Cur SDs. These changes were positively correlated with the amount of CMC. The surface morphology of Cur SDs changed from needle-like to sheet-like as observed by scanning electron microscopy. Cur SDs prepared by CMC and HPMC retained good biological activity. HT-29 human colon cancer cell analysis showed that the addition of CMC significantly improved the anti-proliferation effect of Cur SDs, thus enhancing the bioavailability of curcumin. Solid dispersions made with CMC and HPMC will be a promising hydrocolloid carrier to improve oral bioavailability and efficacy of curcumin.