liposomal curcumin (Medical University of Vienna)

Lipcor (liposomal curcumin) is an investigational liposomal formulation of the natural polyphenol curcumin, specifically developed for the treatment of rare and aggressive pediatric central nervous system (CNS) tumors. Developed in collaboration with the Medical University of Vienna, the formulation is currently being evaluated in clinical trials (such as the LIPCOR study) for patients with recurrent or refractory medulloblastoma, ependymoma, and atypical teratoid rhabdoid tumors (ATRT). Curcumin is known for its potent anti-neoplastic, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties; however, its clinical utility is typically limited by poor aqueous solubility and low systemic bioavailability. The liposomal delivery system in Lipcor is designed to enhance the stability and pharmacokinetic profile of curcumin, potentially improving its ability to cross the blood-brain barrier. Mechanistically, curcumin acts as a pleiotropic inhibitor of multiple oncogenic signaling pathways, including NF-κB, STAT3, and Wnt/β-catenin, thereby inducing apoptosis and inhibiting tumor cell proliferation and survival.

Other names

curcumin liposomal