Isolation of Anti-Prion Compounds from Curcuma phaeocaulis Valeton Extract

Prion diseases, known as a group of fatal neurodegenerative disorders caused by prions, remain incurable despite extensive research efforts. In a recent study, crude extract from <i>Curcuma phaeocaulis</i> Valeton (<i>Cp</i>) showed promising anti-prion efficacy in in vitro and in vivo models, prompting further investigation into their active compounds. We endeavored to identify the chemical constituents of the <i>Cp</i> extract and discover potential anti-prion agents. With the use of centrifugal partition chromatography (CPC), major constituents were isolated from the <i>n</i>-hexane (HX) fraction of the extract in a single step. Spectroscopic analysis confirmed the presence of curcumenone, curcumenol, and furanodienone. Subsequent efficacy testing in a cell culture model of prion disease identified curcumenol and furanodienone as active compounds. This study underscores the potential of natural products in the search for effective treatments against prion diseases.