epigallocatechin gallate + epicatechin gallate

EGCG (epigallocatechin gallate) and ECG (epicatechin gallate) are two major catechins found in green tea with multiple biological activities. These compounds belong to the polyphenol family and have demonstrated several therapeutic properties. ## Pharmacological Properties EGCG and ECG have shown antimicrobial activity against various microorganisms, including Helicobacter pylori. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC90) for both compounds against H. pylori is 100 μg/ml[1]. When combined with antibiotics like amoxicillin (AMX), they demonstrate additive effects that enhance antibacterial activity[1]. These catechins also exhibit health-promoting effects in animal models. At concentrations as low as 2.5 μM, EGCG and ECG have been shown to enhance fitness, increase lifespan, and improve stress resistance in C. elegans (a nematode model organism)[2]. The mechanism involves: - Inhibition of mitochondrial respiratory chain complex I - Transient reactive oxygen species (ROS) formation - Temporary ATP reduction - Activation of stress response pathways (SKN-1 and DAF-16) - Enhanced ROS defense mechanisms - Reduced fat content - Improved long-term health outcomes[2] ## Anticancer Properties EGCG has been extensively studied for its anticancer effects. When combined with various anticancer drugs, EGCG demonstrates synergistic enhancement of: - Apoptosis (programmed cell death) - Expression of growth arrest and DNA damage-inducible genes (DDIT3/GADD153, GADD45A, CDKN1A/p21) - Overall anticancer effects[5] ## Pharmacokinetic Interactions Gallate-type catechins like EGCG and ECG are more commonly reported to alter drug transport, metabolism, and/or solubility compared to non-gallate catechins[3]. The intestine appears to be the main site of green tea-drug interactions, where EGCG concentrations may reach 20-436 μM[4]. ## Structural Characteristics The trihydroxyphenyl rings of both EGCG and ECG form hydrogen bonds with binding site residues of their target proteins, which contributes to their biological activities[6].

Other names

EGCG + ECGGreen tea catechins