Objective: To explore the effect of curcumin on proliferation and apoptosis of TK6 human diploid lymphoblastoid cells.Methods: MTT colorometric assay, 3H-TdR incorporation, cell cycle analysis were used to evaluate the effect on proliferation, and morphology microstructure. Flow cytometry was used to detect the effect on apoptosis induction on TK6 cell.Results: Curcumin could inhibit proliferation by blocking transition from G0/G1 to S phase, induce apoptosis in TK6 cells. The effective dose for proliferation inhibition and apoptosis induction is 20 ?mol/L.Conclusion: Apoptosis induction is one of important mechanisms for anti-mutagenic, anti-tumor action of curcumin.