Fluorescent probe materials based on curcumin derivatives for anti-tumor studies: A review

Curcumin, has garnered significant attention due to its broad-spectrum of pharmacological properties. Despite its designation as a “golden molecule” for wellness, its clinical application has been hindered by inherent limitations, including poor aqueous solubility, low bioavailability, and chemical instability. To address these challenges, researchers have explored innovative strategies via as structural modifications like metal complexes and advanced drug delivery systems to enhance its therapeutic potential. This review provides a comprehensive overview of curcumin derivatives and their applications in anticancer and DNA-cleavage activities over the past two decades. Additionally, we highlight the fluorescent properties of these derivatives and their emerging role in bioimaging, which has recently attracted considerable scientific interest. By elucidating the structure-activity relationships and mechanistic insights, this review aims to facilitate the rational design of more efficient and less toxic curcumin-based therapeutics. Ultimately, this discussion may contribute to future advancements in targeted drug development and personalized medicine. • Curcumin has been extensively studied for it's therapeutic potential. • This review summarizes the Fluorescent Probe Materials Based on Curcumin Derivatives For Anti-Tumor Studies for two decades • The structurally modified curcumin derivatives enhanced the bio-availability; essential for drug development. • This review highlights the footprint of curcumin derivatives in diverse fields.