Epigallocatechin Gallate Nanodelivery Systems for Cancer Therapy

• Type: Another Publication in an International Scientific Journal
• Date: 2016

Authors

Granja, A (Author) Other; Pinheiro, M (Author) Other; Salette Reis (Author) FFUP

Journal

Title: Nutrients

Vol. 8 No. 770

Final page: 307

ISSN: 2072-6643

Publisher: MDPI

Indexing

ISI Web of Knowledge - 34 Citations

Scopus - 57 Citations

Other information

Authenticus ID: P-00K-FV7

DOI: 10.3390/nu8050307

Abstract (EN): Cancer is one of the leading causes of morbidity and mortality all over the world. Conventional treatments, such as chemotherapy, are generally expensive, highly toxic and lack efficiency. Cancer chemoprevention using phytochemicals is emerging as a promising approach for the treatment of early carcinogenic processes. (-)-Epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG) is the major bioactive constituent in green tea with numerous health benefits including anti-cancer activity, which has been intensively studied. Besides its potential for chemoprevention, EGCG has also been shown to synergize with common anti-cancer agents, which makes it a suitable adjuvant in chemotherapy. However, limitations in terms of stability and bioavailability have hampered its application in clinical settings. Nanotechnology may have an important role in improving the pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamics of EGCG. Indeed, several studies have already reported the use of nanoparticles as delivery vehicles of EGCG for cancer therapy. The aim of this article is to discuss the EGCG molecule and its associated health benefits, particularly its anti-cancer activity and provide an overview of the studies that have employed nanotechnology strategies to enhance EGCG's properties and potentiate its anti-tumoral activity.

Language: English

Type (Professor's evaluation): Scientific

No. of pages: 23