Abstract
Background: Curcumin, a polyphenolic compound from turmeric, exhibits potent anti-inflammatory properties but suffers from poor oral bioavailability due to low aqueous solubility, rapid metabolism, and systemic elimination. Nanoformulations offer a promising strategy to overcome these limitations. This study investigates the bioavailability and anti-inflammatory efficacy of curcumin nanoformulations in arthritis models.Methods: A comprehensive literature review and meta-analysis were conducted, synthesizing data from 30 studies published between 2010 and 2024. Pharmacokinetic parameters (Cmax, AUC, relative bioavailability) and anti-inflammatory outcomes (reduction in paw edema, cytokine levels, arthritis scores) were extracted. Statistical analyses included effect size calculation, heterogeneity assessment, and subgroup analyses by nanoformulation type.Results: Nanoformulations significantly improved curcumin bioavailability, with a pooled relative bioavailability of 9.2-fold (95% CI: 6.8–11.6) compared to native curcumin. In arthritis models, nanoformulated curcumin reduced paw edema by 45.3% (95% CI: 38.7–51.9) and suppressed TNF-α levels by 62.1% (95% CI: 54.3–69.9). Solid lipid nanoparticles and polymeric nanoparticles showed the highest efficacy.Conclusions: Curcumin nanoformulations markedly enhance bioavailability and anti-inflammatory activity, positioning them as viable therapeutic candidates for arthritis management. Future research should focus on clinical translation and long-term safety.