Epigallocatechin-3-gallate and Epicatechin (Flavonoid Antioxidant System) (EGCG/EC)

Epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG) and epicatechin are the primary polyphenolic flavonoids found in green tea (Camellia sinensis) and are the most studied components of the flavonoid antioxidant system. These compounds function as potent antioxidants by directly neutralizing reactive oxygen species (ROS) and chelating transition metals, thereby protecting cellular lipids, proteins, and DNA from oxidative damage (PubChem, 2024). Beyond direct scavenging, they act as bioactive modulators of cellular signaling, most notably by activating the Nrf2 pathway to upregulate endogenous antioxidant enzymes and inhibiting pro-inflammatory pathways like NF-kappaB (PubMed, PMC6073177). EGCG has also been identified as a high-affinity ligand for the 67-kDa laminin receptor, which plays a role in its anti-cancer and anti-metastatic effects (Nature, 2004). In cardiovascular health, epicatechin is known to enhance the bioactivity of endothelial nitric oxide synthase, supporting vascular relaxation (PubMed, 21477653). While these compounds show significant therapeutic potential in preventing chronic diseases such as cancer and neurodegeneration, their clinical application is often limited by poor bioavailability and concerns regarding liver toxicity at high supplemental doses (EFSA, 2018).

Other names

Green tea catechins(-)-Epigallocatechin-3-gallate(-)-EpicatechinPolyphenolic antioxidantsTea polyphenols

Direct scavenging of reactive oxygen species (ROS); activation of the Nrf2/ARE (Nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 / Antioxidant Response Element) signaling pathway; binding to the 67-kDa laminin receptor (67LR); inhibition of pro-inflammatory transcription factors such as NF-kappaB and AP-1; and inhibition of DNA methyltransferases (DNMTs).