Therapeutic potential of epigallocatechin gallate in gynecologic cancer, endometriosis, polycystic ovary syndrome: a mechanistic and translational perspective

TL;DR

This review explores how a compound in tea may help treat gynecological cancers and disorders by affecting key biological pathways.

Contribution

The paper provides a comprehensive synthesis of EGCG's potential therapeutic roles in gynecological diseases and highlights research priorities.

Findings

EGCG modulates pathways like PI3K/Akt, MAPK, and NF-κB to exert anti-cancer and anti-inflammatory effects.

Catechins show potential in treating gynecological cancers and non-cancerous conditions like endometriosis and PCOS.

Clinical validation is needed to determine optimal dosing and safety of EGCG in gynecological practice.

Abstract

Tea, among the most widely consumed beverages worldwide, is rich in polyphenolic compounds known as catechins, particularly epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG). This review aims to synthesize recent findings and ongoing controversies concerning the role of tea-derived catechins in gynecologic diseases while also outlining key priorities for future research to address existing knowledge gaps. A comprehensive literature search was conducted across the following electronic databases: PubMed, Medline, Embase, Cochrane Library, CINAHL, Web of Science, Scopus, Google Scholar, and ScienceDirect. Epigallocatechin gallate molecules exhibit diverse biological activities, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antiproliferative, and epigenetic effects, primarily through the modulation of key cellular pathways such as PI3K/Akt, MAPK, and NF-κB. Growing evidence from in vitro, in vivo, and limited clinical studies suggests that catechins may be of therapeutic value in the treatment of gynecological conditions, including endometrial, ovarian, cervical, and vulvar cancers, as well as non-neoplastic disorders such as polycystic ovary syndrome and endometriosis. EGCG, as both an antioxidant and a pro-oxidant, has been shown to sensitize cancer cells to chemotherapy, regulate hormonal imbalances, and suppress inflammatory responses. However, discrepancies in findings between studies, largely due to heterogeneity in dosage, bioavailability, and study design, limit definitive conclusions. While promising, these compounds require validation through robust, large-scale, and standardized clinical trials to define optimal dosing strategies, assess long-term safety, and determine their roles in routine gynecological practice.

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