Pro-inflammatory cytokines such as interleukin-1β (IL-1β) and tumor necrosis factor-
alpha (TNF-α) play a key role in the pathogenesis of osteoarthritis (OA). Once released, these
cytokines are potent stimulators for the de novo production of catabolic enzymes such as matrix metalloproteinases
(MMPs) and cyclo-oxygenase-2 (COX-2). Anti-inflammatory agents capable of suppressing
the production and catabolic actions of these cytokines may have therapeutic potential in the treatment
of OA and a range of other osteoarticular disorders. The purpose of this study was to examine the
therapeutic effect of Curcumin (diferuloylmethane), a pharmacologically safe phytochemical agent, on
males and foals affected by degenerative joint diseases. Curcumin, in the form phytosome (CURCUVET
®, Indena Spa, Milan, Italy) was administered to animals for fifteen days and gene expression was
monitored before the treatment and after four, eight, and fifteen days. In mares, Curcumin inhibited
the expression of COX-2, TNF-α, IL-1β, IL1RN, and IL6, even if only the downregulation of IL-1β and
IL1RN were significant. In foals, Curcumin significantly inhibited the expression of COX-2, TNF-α,
IL1RN and significantly increased that of IL6. These results indicate that Curcumin has nutritional
potential as a natural anti-inflammatory agent for treating osteoarticular
