The Association Between the Risk of Breast Cancer and Epigallocatechin- 3-Gallate Intake: A Literature Review of a Potential Chemopreventive Agent

Abstract

According to the latest epidemiological data, breast cancer has recently been acknowledged as the most frequently diagnosed malignancy. To date, a body of evidence has established the involvement of multiple – and frequently interrelated - genetic and environmental factors in the pathogenesis of the disease. Emerging research on cancer prevention has highlighted the deterrence potential of interventions targeting environmental risk factors, particularly diet. In this aspect, the current review reveals the latest scientific results regarding epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG) – a catechin most commonly found in green tea, as a potential chemopreventive dietary agent against breast cancer. In vitro studies on EGCG have demonstrated its effect on cell cycle progression and its potential to suppress several intracellular signaling pathways involved in breast cancer pathogenesis. In addition, EGCG possesses specific apoptosis-inducing characteristics that seem to enhance its role as a regulator of cell survival. Preclinical data seem to support the use of EGCG as an effective adjunct to EGFR-targeting treatments. The authors’ appraisal of the literature suggests that although preclinical evidence has documented the anticarcinogenic features of EGCG, limited large-scale epidemiological studies are investigating the consumption of EGCG – containing nutrients in the prevention and management of breast cancer risk. This literature review aims to serve as a liaison between preclinical and epidemiological research, surveying the existing evidence and unraveling relevant knowledge gaps.

Natural Products for the Prevention, Treatment and Progression of Breast Cancer

“…Its importance as a cancer epigenetic regulator was recently reported [73]. It acts as a potential chemopreventive agent in BC [74]. Recently, its efficacy in preventing dermatitis in patients with BC was also highlighted [75]…”