Epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG)

Epigallocatechin gallate ( EGCG for short) is a naturally occurring secondary plant substance that belongs to the catechins. This group of polyphenols mainly includes substances that are particularly abundant in tea, nuts, fruit and cocoa.

EGCG is one of the most important and bioactive components in green tea. The substance has aroused great interest in scientific research due to its strong antioxidant properties and numerous study results have demonstrated several positive effects of EGCG.

Where does EGCG occur?

EGCG is mainly found in the leaves of Camellia sinensis - the classic tea plant from which various types of tea such as green, black and white tea are obtained. However, green tea has the highest EGCG content because its leaves are not fermented. In addition, EGCG is also found in smaller amounts in nuts, berries, cocoa and some fruits, such as berries, avocados, cherries and apples.

What benefits does epigallocatechin gallate provide to the human body?

In the human body, epigallocatechin gallate has several functions that contribute to its health-promoting effects:

1. epigallocatechin gallate has anti-cancer properties.

EGCG has shown promising results in the prevention and treatment of cancer in various studies. The vital substance has been shown to enhance the activity of p53, a tumor suppressor protein that plays a crucial role in preventing cancer development. P53 helps to regulate the cell cycle, repair damaged DNA and induce apoptosis (programmed cell death) in cells that have suffered irreparable damage and are therefore at risk of mutation. EGCG has also been shown to suppress angiogenesis (the formation of new blood vessels).

These properties could play an important role in preventing the development of cancer.

2. EGCG has anti-inflammatory effect

EGCG can also reduce inflammation in the body by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory messengers such as cytokines, prostaglandins and, for example, tumor necrosis factor-alpha ( TNF-alpha for short). This could help to alleviate chronic inflammation and associated diseases. With regard to longevity, EGCG is an important protective factor, particularly in connection with inflammaging.

3. cardioprotective effect of epigallocatechin gallate.

Studies have shown that EGCG can reduce the risk of heart disease by improving cholesterol levels and preventing the formation of blood clots. A double-blind, placebo-controlled study of 56 subjects found that taking 379 mg of green tea extract per day significantly reduced both systolic and diastolic blood pressure, insulin levels and insulin resistance after three months. In addition, the experimental group showed lower inflammation levels, an improved overall antioxidant status and a healthier lipid profile.

4. epigallocatechin gallate and the NAD metabolism

A remarkable ability of EGCG is to inhibit the enzyme nicotinamide N-methyltransferase (NMNAT) in the NAD (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide) metabolism. NAD is an essential coenzyme that plays a key role in numerous cellular metabolic processes, including energy production, DNA repair and cell death. NMNAT is an enzyme involved in the synthesis of NAD by converting nicotinamide mononucleotide(NMN) to NAD. By increasing the activity of NMNAT, EGCG can potentially increase NAD production and thus improve cell function and health. This could play a role in the prevention of age-related diseases and help to extend cellular lifespan. For this reason, you will also find EGCG in the regeNAD.

5. cognitive performance and stress reduction

In a double-blind, placebo-controlled crossover study, cognitive and cardiovascular functions, mood and an electroencephalogram (EEG) were also examined before and 120 minutes after taking either 300 mg EGCG or a placebo. The results showed that the administration of EGCG was associated with a significant increase in alpha, beta and theta brain activity. The participants who received the molecule also reported more calmness and less stress compared to the placebo group.

6. weight loss through EGCG

A review evaluated the effects of green tea and its EGCG content on body fat and body weight in humans. From an original total of 424 articles, 15 were selected for systematic review. The results suggest that daily consumption of green tea with EGCG doses between 100 and 460 mg/day over an intervention period of 12 weeks or longer is particularly effective in reducing body fat and weight. In many studies with the most promising results, EGCG consumption was supplemented with caffeine in doses of 80 to 300 mg/day.

7. contradictory results on the neuroprotective effect

EGCG has been shown to protect brain function in animal studies. Unfortunately, much research is still needed in this regard in humans. While some observational and intervention studies in humans have found positive effects of tea consumption on cognitive function and memory, other studies have not reported such positive results. The discrepancies may be due to confounding factors such as differences in the type of tea consumed, beverage temperature, lifestyle, and genetic and environmental factors.

Conclusion

EGCG is a multifaceted molecule that has delivered promising results in a number of studies. In particular, its ability to positively influence the NAD metabolism may be exciting for the future.