Polyphenon E

Polyphenon E is a standardized botanical drug product derived from green tea (*Camellia sinensis*) leaves, containing a specific mixture of catechins with epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) as the primary active constituent (typically 50-75%). It has been investigated for its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-tumor properties across various malignancies. In a clinical trial led by the Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center Shreveport, Polyphenon E was evaluated in combination with the EGFR inhibitor erlotinib for the treatment of advanced Stage IIIb/IV non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) in patients who had progressed after prior chemotherapy. The mechanism of action involves the inhibition of multiple signaling pathways, including the inhibition of DNA methyltransferase (DNMT), modulation of the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) pathway, and induction of apoptosis, potentially sensitizing cancer cells to targeted therapies. While approved as a topical treatment for genital warts under the brand name Veregen, its oral use in oncology remains investigational.

Brand names

Polyphenon EVeregen

Other names

Green tea extractEGCGEpigallocatechin gallateGreen tea catechins