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Green tea polyphenols in the prevention of colon cancer
Nagi Kumar1, David Shibata, James Helm
1Division of Health Outcomes and Behavior, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, University of South Florida College of Medicine, Tampa, Florida 33612, USA. kumar@moffitt.usf.edu
Abstract:
Several plant-based nutrients and non-nutrients that can inhibit mutagenesis and proliferation have been identified. Some of the most promising nutrients identified as chemopreventive agents in colon cancer prevention include isoflavones, curcumin, calcium, vitamin D and more recently Green tea polyphenols (GTP). In addition to inhibiting mutagenesis and proliferation, these compounds are relatively non-toxic, are of low cost and can be taken orally or as a part of the daily diet. Epidemiological and laboratory studies have identified epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) in green tea polyphenols (GTP), as the most potent chemopreventive agent that can induce apoptosis, suppress the formation and growth of human cancers including colorectal cancers (CRC). It is only logical then, that future clinical studies should focus on examining the efficacy of phytochemicals such as EGCG in cancer chemoprevention as an alternative to pharmacological agents, especially in populations where administration of COX-2 inhibitors, Aspirin and NSAIDS is contraindicated. The goal of this review is to provide the rationale, and discuss the use of EGCG in GTP as a chemopreventive agent for prevention of colon carcinogenesis and present evidence for the efficacy and safety of these agents based on epidemiological, animal, in vitro studies and Phase I clinical trials.
Insights
Green tea polyphenols (GTP), particularly epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), show promise as natural chemopreventive agents for colon cancer. These compounds inhibit cancer cell growth and proliferation with low toxicity, offering a safe dietary alternative.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Nutritional Science
- Chemoprevention
Background:
- Plant-derived compounds like Green Tea Polyphenols (GTP) are investigated for cancer prevention.
- Key compounds such as epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) demonstrate anti-mutagenic and anti-proliferative properties.
- These agents are considered for colon cancer prevention due to their safety and dietary accessibility.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the rationale and evidence for using EGCG from GTP as a chemopreventive agent for colon cancer.
- To evaluate the efficacy and safety of EGCG in colon cancer prevention.
- To present findings from epidemiological, animal, in vitro, and Phase I clinical studies.
Main Methods:
- Review of epidemiological data linking diet and colon cancer.
- Analysis of in vitro studies on cancer cell lines.
- Examination of animal models of colon carcinogenesis.
- Evaluation of Phase I clinical trial data on EGCG safety and efficacy.
Main Results:
- EGCG is identified as a potent chemopreventive agent within GTP.
- EGCG demonstrates the ability to induce apoptosis and suppress tumor formation and growth.
- Evidence suggests EGCG is effective against colorectal cancers (CRC).
Conclusions:
- EGCG in GTP is a promising chemopreventive agent for colon cancer.
- Phytochemicals like EGCG offer a viable alternative to pharmacological agents, especially when NSAIDs are contraindicated.
- Further clinical studies are warranted to confirm the efficacy and safety of EGCG for colon cancer prevention.
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