epicatechin gallate

Epicatechin gallate (ECG) is a **flavan-3-ol** type flavonoid, primarily found in green tea (*Camellia sinensis*), and is also present in cocoa, grapes, buckwheat, and other plants[1][2]. It is a **polyphenolic catechin** formed by the esterification of epicatechin with gallic acid. ECG is noted for its potent **antioxidant**, **antimicrobial**, **anti-inflammatory**, and **potential anticancer** activities. It acts as a nonselective antagonist of opioid receptors and inhibits bacterial efflux pumps (e.g., NorA in *Staphylococcus aureus*), contributing to the reduction of methicillin resistance and staphylococcal virulence[1][7]. In cancer models, ECG can induce apoptosis via caspase-3 activation and inhibit DNA methyltransferase, potentially reactivating tumor suppressor genes[1][2][8]. ECG modulates inflammatory mediators such as IL-6, TNF-α, and NF-κB, and has been studied for its potential role in modulating inflammation related to SARS-CoV-2 infection[1]. Its **bioavailability** is relatively poor due to low absorption and degradation by gut microbiota, and it is not established as a pharmaceutical drug; rather, it is used in biochemical, nutraceutical, and research contexts.

Other names

(−)-epicatechin-3-gallate(-)-epicatechin gallate(2R,3R)-2-(3,4-dihydroxyphenyl)-5,7-dihydroxychroman-3-yl 3,4,5-trihydroxybenzoateL-ECGNsc636594Nsc-636594Nsc 636594TeatanninAids000675Aids-000675Aids 000675epicatechol gallate3-O-GalloylgatechinCathechin 3-gallateCathechin3-gallateCathechin-3-gallate