Ph-Sensitive Transferosomes For Curcumin Delivery: Design Principles, Molecular Interactions, In Vitro–In Vivo Correlations, And Translational Perspectives
- Jun 20
- 2 min read
Updated: Jun 21
https://doi.org/10.66715/jsccr/2026.v3.i2.100108 | Original Research | 2026 | Volume 3 | Issue 2 | Page 100-108
Sachin Sharma, Research Scholar, Department of Pharmaceutical Science, HRIT University, Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh, India.
Dr H.S Lamba, Head of Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, HRIT University, Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh, India.
Abstract
Curcumin, a naturally occurring polyphenolic compound derived from Curcuma longa, exhibits diverse pharmacological activities including anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antimicrobial, and anticancer effects. However, its clinical application remains limited due to poor aqueous solubility, low bioavailability, rapid metabolism, and inadequate tissue targeting. pH-sensitive transferosomes have emerged as a promising nanocarrier system capable of overcoming these limitations by enhancing drug stability, permeation, and site-specific delivery. This review explores the design principles of pH-sensitive transferosomes for curcumin delivery, emphasising the role of phospholipids, edge activators, and pH-responsive components in modulating vesicular behaviour and drug release profiles. The molecular interactions governing curcumin encapsulation, membrane flexibility, cellular uptake, and stimulus-responsive release under varying pH conditions are critically discussed. Furthermore, the review examines current evidence from in vitro and in vivo studies, highlighting correlations between physicochemical characteristics, skin permeation, biodistribution, pharmacokinetics, and therapeutic efficacy. Particular attention is given to the application of these nanovesicles in cancer therapy, wound healing, inflammatory disorders, and transdermal drug delivery. Challenges related to large-scale manufacturing, formulation stability, regulatory approval, and clinical translation are also evaluated. Recent advances in formulation engineering and quality-by-design approaches are considered for their potential to facilitate commercialization. Overall, pH-sensitive transferosomes represent a versatile and effective platform for curcumin delivery, offering enhanced therapeutic outcomes and improved patient compliance. Continued research focusing on translational and clinical aspects may accelerate the development of curcumin-based nanomedicines for diverse biomedical applications.
Keywords: Curcumin, pH-sensitive transferosomes, nanocarriers, targeted drug delivery, transdermal delivery, bioavailability, molecular interactions, translational medicine.