Curcumin–Zn(II) complex for enhanced solubility and stability: an approach for improved delivery and pharmacodynamic effects

AbstractObjective: The aim of present investigation was to prepare Curcumin–Zn(II) complex in a view to enhance solubility, stability and pharmacodynamic effect in experimentally induced ulcerative colitis.Method: Curcumin–Zn(II) complex was prepared by stirring curcumin with anhydrous zinc chloride at a molar ratio of 1:1. The prepared curcumin metallocomplex was characterized by TLC, FTIR, UV spectroscopy and 1H NMR. In vitro kinetic degradation and solubility of Curcumin and Curcumin–Zn(II) complex was analyzed spectrophotometrically. Pharmacodynamic evaluation of curcumin and its metal complex was assessed in ulcerative colitis in mice.Results: Curcumin showed chelation with zinc ion as confirmed by the TLC, FTIR, UV spectroscopy and 1H NMR. The results of TLC [Rf value], IR Spectroscopy [shifting of stretching vibrations of υ(C=C) and υ(C=O)], UV spectra [deconvoluted with absorption band at 432–466.4 nm] of Curcumin–Zn(II) complex compared to curcumin confirmed the formation of metallocomplex. 1HNMR...