Article Publish Status: FREE
Abstract Title:

Curcumin suppression of cytokine release and cytokine storm. A potential therapy for patients with Ebola and other severe viral infections.

Abstract Source:

In Vivo. 2015 Jan-Feb;29(1):1-4. PMID: 25600522

Abstract Author(s):

Peter P Sordillo, Lawrence Helson

Article Affiliation:

Peter P Sordillo

Abstract:

BACKGROUND: The terminal stage of Ebola and other viral diseases is often the onset of a cytokine storm, the massive overproduction of cytokines by the body's immune system.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: The actions of curcumin in suppressing cytokine release and cytokine storm are discussed.

RESULTS: Curcumin blocks cytokine release, most importantly the key pro-inflammatory cytokines, interleukin-1, interleukin-6 and tumor necrosis factor-α. The suppression of cytokine release by curcumin correlates with clinical improvement in experimental models of disease conditions where a cytokine storm plays a significant role in mortality.

CONCLUSION: The use of curcumin should be investigated in patients with Ebola and cytokine storm. Intravenous formulations may allow achievement of therapeutic blood levels of curcumin.

Study Type : Review

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