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Plant Science Today (PST)

Research Articles

Vol. 13 No. 3 (2026)

Protective role of curcumin against colon injury through the regulation of oxidative stress, inflammation and maintenance of colon tissue architecture

DOI
https://doi.org/10.14719/pst.14119
Submitted
16 February 2026
Published
09-09-2026 — Updated on 30-09-2026
Versions

Abstract

The study evaluated the protective effect of curcumin (Cr) and the underlying mechanisms involved in colon injury induced by azoxymethane (AOM). The anti-inflammatory and antioxidant potential of Cr was evaluated through measurement of proinflammatory markers and antioxidant enzymes levels using enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The colon tissue architecture and fibrosis were examined through haematoxylin and eosin (H & E) and Masson trichrome and Sirius red staining. Further, the expression pattern of interleukin - 6 (IL - 6) protein was analysed using immunohistochemistry (IHC) staining. The results indicate that Cr was effective in reducing colon lesions induced
by AOM by decreasing the levels of tumour necrosis factor - alpha (TNF - α), C - reactive protein (CRP) and IL - 6 (p < 0.05). Curcumin treatment regulates oxidative stress in the colon tissues by reducing lipid peroxidation and increasing the levels of antioxidant enzymes level (p < 0.05). Histopathological analysis showed that AOM treatment caused colon injury, including congestion, inflammation and fibrosis. Curcumin treatment maintained colon tissue architecture by reducing congestion, fibrosis and inflammation. Interleukin - 6 expression was significantly increased in the colon tissues induced by AOM. However, Cr treatment decreased IL - 6 protein expression compared with the AOM treated group. These results suggest that Cr consumption may be a promising natural remedy for preventing colon pathogenesis. Given its capacity to
reduce inflammatory markers and oxidative stress, Cr might play a vital role in maintaining colon health.

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