Underlying Molecular Mechanisms of Anti-Cancer Activities in MS17 [1,5-bis(2-hydroxyphenyl)-1,4-pentadiene-3-one] and Curcumin-treated Human Lung Cancer Cells

Lung cancer (LC) is a prominent cancer with a growing incidence and fatality rate. Treatment resistance posed a challenge for LC therapy, calling for alternate treatment avenues. Curcumin is a natural compound derived from turmeric with anti-cancer properties but poor absorption limits its application. This study investigates the anti-cancer activity and their underlying mechanisms exerted by a curcumin derivative, MS17, on non-small cell lung carcinoma cells. We observed MS17 demonstrated potent cytotoxic, anti-proliferative and apoptotic activity. Proteomic analysis suggests MS17 modulates proteins associated with anti-cancer pathways. Hence, demonstrating MS17 as a promising anti-cancer agent for the treatment of lung cancer.