Nano-Liposomal Technology Enhances Curcumin Bioavailability by 23.2-Fold, Clinical Study Finds

The study, entitled “Enhanced bioavailability of a novel double-layered nano-liposomal curcumin (BNT–C060): a randomized, double-blind, clinical trial,” was conducted by a team of South Korean researchers led by Do-Sung Kim, in collaboration with scientists from Jeonbuk National University, Kyungsung University, Wonkwang University, and other research institutions.

Nano-Liposomal Technology Improves Curcumin Absorption

Curcumin, a naturally occurring bioactive compound found in turmeric, has attracted considerable scientific interest due to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. However, conventional curcumin has several limitations, including poor water solubility, low absorption, and rapid metabolism, resulting in limited oral bioavailability.

To address these challenges, the researchers developed BNT–C060, a novel nano-liposomal curcumin formulation coated with two layers of chitosan and alginate, designed to protect the active compound and enhance its delivery within the body.

The randomized, double-blind clinical trial involved 18 healthy male participants who completed the study. Participants were divided into two groups receiving either nano-liposomal curcumin or conventional curcumin.

Clinical Results: A 23.2-Fold Increase in Curcumin Bioavailability

The findings demonstrated substantial improvements in curcumin absorption with the BNT–C060 formulation compared with conventional curcumin. After dose normalization, the researchers observed:

• A 23.2-fold increase in systemic curcumin exposure, measured by the area under the plasma concentration–time curve (AUC).
• A 53-fold increase in peak plasma curcumin concentration (Cmax).
• A reduction in time to peak concentration (Tmax) from 3.3 hours to 0.86 hours.

No clinically significant safety concerns were identified during the 24-hour monitoring period following a single oral dose.

Promising Applications of Nanotechnology in Pharmaceutical Development

These findings provide preliminary clinical evidence supporting the potential of nano-liposomal technology to improve the oral bioavailability of poorly absorbed bioactive compounds, particularly curcumin.

The study represents a promising advancement in the development of innovative drug delivery systems, offering potential opportunities to optimize the absorption and systemic availability of natural active ingredients.

Nevertheless, the trial focused on single-dose pharmacokinetics in a small group of healthy volunteers. Larger and longer-term clinical studies are required to establish therapeutic benefits and long-term safety in real-world applications.

Reference

Kim, D. S., et al. (2026). Enhanced bioavailability of a novel double-layered nano-liposomal curcumin (BNT–C060): a randomized, double-blind, clinical trial.

Journal: Scientific Reports, Volume 16, Article 24863.

Publication date: May 31, 2026.

Original research: https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-026-53709-8