Studying Turmeric's Effects on Arthritis, Cancer & Stroke

A Department of Medicine Research Spotlight

Associate Professor of Medicine (Division of Endocrionolgy) & Nutritional Sciences
Clinical Instructor, Pharmacy Practice & Science, College of Pharmacy
Member, University of Arizona Cancer Center & BIO5 Institute

TurmericI lead a National Institutes of Health (NIH)-funded cross-disciplinary translational research program investigating the pathogenesis and treatment of resorptive bone diseases including breast cancer bone metastases and rheumatoid arthritis (RA).

My current clinical research projects include a survey of dietary supplement use in the RA population and a trial of turmeric dietary supplements for treatment of RA. Current bench research projects include the development of novel models of estrogen-receptor positive breast cancer bone metastases and an investigation into the utility and mechanism of action of turmeric dietary supplements in the prevention of breast cancer bone metastases.

Prior studies also have looked at how extracts of the spice may aid in stroke recovery by quelling inflammation in blood vessels in adults with diabetes. Opportunities also exist to become involved with collaborative research projects being directed by other UA researchers through the UA Cancer Center and BIO5 Institute, including an investigation of the effects of obesity and insulin resistance on bone development in adolescent girls and a trial of turmeric dietary supplements in women suffering from fatigue following chemotherapy and radiation treatment for breast cancer.

Release Date: 
03/17/2016 - 9:00am