Abstract

Cisplatin, a platinum-based chemotherapy drug, has been a cornerstone in treating various cancers, particularly testicular and ovarian tumours, for nearly four decades. It works by damaging DNA and forming bonds between DNA and proteins, leading to cancer cell death. However, its effectiveness is often limited by severe side effects, including nephrotoxicity, and the development of drug resistance due to cancer cells’ ability to repair DNA damage. Recent advancements have mapped cisplatin-induced DNA damage across the human genome, offering insights into cancer sensitivity and resistance mechanisms. One promising approach to enhancing cisplatin’s efficacy and reducing its side effects is combining it with curcumin, a polyphenolic compound from turmeric known for its anticancer properties and minimal side effects. Curcumin has shown potential in sensitizing cancer cells to cisplatin, although its low bioavailability remains a challenge. More high-quality research is needed to fully understand the effectiveness of this combination therapy and to optimize its use in clinical settings. This review explores the side effects of cisplatin, the benefits of curcumin, and the potential of their combination delivered via nanocarriers as a novel cancer treatment strategy