Stabilized Curcumin in Emulsions and Hydrogel Systems: A Nutritional Strategy for Cardiovascular and Renal Protection in Hypercholesterolemia

Hypercholesterolemia is a significant risk factor for cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) and has been increasingly associated with renal dysfunction. Nutritional interventions featuring bioactive compounds such as curcumin have gained attention due to their lipid-lowering, anti-inflammatory, and nephroprotective effects. A comprehensive literature search was conducted across PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science databases, selecting randomized controlled trials (RCTs), cohort studies, and systematic reviews published between 2010 and 2024. Meta-analysis of the selected studies demonstrated that curcumin supplementation significantly reduced total cholesterol (mean difference: -15.8 mg/dL, 95% CI: -20.4 to -11.2), triglycerides (-13.2 mg/dL, 95% CI: -18.5 to -7.9), and LDL levels (-10.5 mg/dL, 95% CI: -15.7 to -5.3), while increasing HDL levels (+6.7 mg/dL, 95% CI: 3.2 to 10.2). A systematic review and meta-analysis by Emami et al. (2022) highlighted curcumin's anti-inflammatory response in CKD patients. However, curcumin’s poor aqueous solubility and rapid metabolism limit its therapeutic potential. To overcome these challenges, researchers have developed advanced delivery systems such as microencapsulation, emulsions, and hydrogel matrices, to enhance curcumin's bioavailability, stability, and controlled release. Delivery systems such as microencapsulation, nanoemulsions, and hydrogel matrices enhanced curcumin’s bioavailability and therapeutic efficacy. Studies, including on carried out by Ashraf et al. (2022), have highlighted the role of microencapsulated curcumin in modulating diet-induced hypercholesterolemia, supporting its potential as a therapeutic intervention.

Acknowledgement: Part of the work was supported by a grant of the Romanian Ministry of Education and Research, CCCDI-UEFISCDI, project number PN-IV-P1-PCE-2023-1092.