An HPLC-UV method for the simultaneous quantification of curcumin and its metabolites in plasma and lung tissue: potential for preclinical applications.

Curcumin, derived from turmeric, has been extensively investigated for its broad spectrum of biological 34 activities. Previously reported HPLC-UV methods have focussed on analysis of the parent compound. Here, a 35 sensitive HPLC-UV method was developed and partially validated, then used for the simultaneous 36 determination of curcumin and its glucuronide and sulfate metabolites in plasma and lung tissue from mice. The 37 assay was applied to an in vivo pharmacokinetic study comparing formulated curcumin (Meriva™) with 38 standard curcumin. Plasma levels of glucuronide and sulfate metabolites were 5-fold and 2-fold higher after 39 Meriva™ administration compared to standard curcumin. In lung tissue, free curcumin was 4-fold higher 40 following Meriva™ administration versus standard curcumin. This assay represents a rapid, cheap method for 41 simultaneous detection of curcumin and its major metabolites that has applicability in pre-clinical settings.