Monocarbonyl modifications of curcumin: an overview of structure–activity relationship study as anti-infective agents

One of the most widely studied polyphenolic compounds of natural origin is curcumin, also known as a diferuloylmethane, derived from the rhizome of Curcuma longa (L.). Over the past few decades, extensive studies for various pharmacological activities such as antibacterial, anticancer, anti-tuberculosis, anti-inflammatory, antifungal, antimalarial, etc., have been reported. However, poor solubility, stability, and rapid metabolism have limited the bioavailability of curcumin. Researchers have developed several strategies to overcome these limitations, including modified delivery systems such as liposomes, niosomes, and nanogels. Chemical modifications have also been explored; one of the particular interests is the development of monocarbonyl analogs of curcumin (MACs). This modification not only increases the stability and efficacy of the derivatives but also improves pharmacological activities. MACs have demonstrated promise in treating various diseases, including Alzheimer’s, cancer, and diabetes. Overall, the development of MACs and other chemical modifications of curcumin offers a promising avenue for improving the pharmacological activities and bioavailability of this natural compound. Hence, this review summarizes the MACs synthesized over the past few decades and the impact of structural modifications therein on the pharmacological activities of these analogs, offering valuable insights for the development of anti-infective agents based on curcumin derivatives.