Background and aim: Previous studies have demonstrated that curcumin (CUR) is safely used against different cancers. This study was performed to evaluate the effect of curcumin‑containing chitosan nanoparticles (CUR‑CS‑NP) against colon cancer induced by dimethylhydrazine (DMH) in rats.

Material and methods: The rats were randomly divided into four groups. The first group served as a control group. The second group received DMH (20 mg/kg, subcutaneously) once a week. The third group was given DMH and CUR. Group 4 received DMH and CUR‑CS‑NP. The animals were sacrificed at the end of 10 weeks. Caspase‑3 expression in colon tissues was determined by quantitative real‑time PCR. Plasma levels of carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) were determined by enzyme‑linked immunoassay. Malondialdehyde (MDA), nitric oxide, and reduced glutathione were determined in plasma and colorectal tissues. Histopathological examinations of colon tissues were done.

Results: DMH treatment decreased caspase‑3 expression, increased CEA, and oxidative stress levels. Pathologic lesions in the form of dysplasia and lymphocytic infiltration were seen in DMH‑treated group. CUR‑CS‑NP and CUR treatments reduced the pathologic changes and increased caspase‑3 expressions. Each treatment increased glutathione, and reduced MDA, nitric oxide, and CEA levels.

Conclusions: The present study reveals that CUR and CUR-CS-NP have antioxidant and proapoptotic effects. So, it provides an insight towards the use of biological sources as promising anticancer agents.