Curcumin Nanocrystals: Synthesis, Optimisation and Prospects of Anticancer Activity Against Primarily Female-Associated Cancers

Curcumin is a polyphenol phytochemical that is extracted from the rhizomes of Curcuma longa Linn. (Zingiberaceae) in the Zingiberaceae family. In recent years, the investigation of curcumin has notably skyrocketed due to its broad pharmacological profile, as evidenced by its antimicrobial, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antitumoral properties. While research and use of curcumin are significantly increasing, its apparent poor water solubility has notably limited its potential as a promising chemical entity. Consequently, efforts to enhance its apparent solubility without altering the chemical properties have been considered. Among the leading techniques is nanocrystasllisation which involves modifying its physicochemical properties, such as particle size, shape and electrical charge. Nanocrystallisation is a nanoscience technique that utilises the drug’s crystalline properties to enhance its solubility, bioavailability, and overall pharmacological activity. To date, various nanocrystallisation techniques have been employed, including high-pressure homogenisation, sonoprecipitation, and the solvent-antisolvent precipitation technique. Curcumin nanocrystallisation has often been reported for the improvement of its loading capacity, as it requires fewer excipients and significantly enhances the minimal dose efficiency. Furthermore, the significant role of curcumin in primarily female-associated cancers has been highlighted in some in vitro studies. Therefore, this review will focus on the elaboration of nanocrystals and its promising role in breast and gynaecological cancers. Given the limited studies reported on the anticancer activity of breast and gynaecological cancers curcumin nanocrystals, this review also aims to highlight the research gaps concerning the anticancer activity of curcumin nanocrystals.