Evaluation of Curcumin Supplementation on p53 Levels and Apoptosis in Tumor Cells From Patients With Locally Advanced Cervical Cancer

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are evaluating the effects of curcumin supplementation in women with locally advanced cervical cancer. This pilot study aims to understand whether curcumin increases the levels of p53 protein and apoptosis (cell death) in tumor cells, to identify the dose that has the broadest effect, and to assess the safety of different doses. The study focuses on patients receiving standard cancer treatment, including chemoradiotherapy followed by brachytherapy, as cervical cancer remains a significant health issue in Mexico. Participants will be divided into six groups receiving different oral doses of curcumin tablets: 1 g, 3 g, or 6 g daily, each with or without added piperine to improve absorption. The supplementation will be taken alongside their cancer treatment. The study includes four visits: two weeks before treatment, at treatment start, after three cycles of chemoradiotherapy, and at the start of brachytherapy. At each visit, biological samples including cervical swabs, urine, serum, and feces will be collected to measure p53 expression, apoptosis, curcumin bioavailability, and gastrointestinal toxicity. During the study, researchers will monitor adherence to supplementation and assess safety through liver and kidney function tests, blood chemistry, and blood counts. Gastrointestinal symptoms will be recorded using standard criteria. The main outcomes measured are changes in p53 levels and apoptosis in tumor cells. Data will be analyzed statistically to compare the effects across different doses and combinations with piperine. The study expects to find the dose of curcumin that best supports p53 expression and tumor cell death, potentially improving treatment response and reducing side effects.

Curcumin Supplementation in Cervical Cancer