Friday Hope: EGCG (Found in Tea) Inhibits Fibrillization and SARS-CoV-2 Replication

Tea and tea extracts may help prevent the formation of new fibrils that lead to Amyloidosis

Epigallocatechin-gallate (EGCG) interferes in different steps of amyloid formation. EGCG can bind to unfolded monomers and inhibit the formation of amyloid fibrils or amorphous aggregates. It also is able to remodel amyloid fibrils to form amorphous aggregates.

As readers of my work are familiar with, the Spike Protein of SARS-CoV-2 is amyloidogenic and, I believe, is inducing systemic amyloidosis in an unknown percentage of individuals exposed to the Spike Protein. I believe it is important to do all we can to naturally mute and prevent processes that lead to fibrillization, a necessary step in the progression of amyloidosis.

The misfolding of endogenous proteins and the formation of fibrillar structures, which are integral to the concept of amyloidogenesis, is a complex process involving the formation of many intermediate aggregate species. While the complexity of the aggregation process has confounded our understanding of the mechanisms of amyloid formation and toxicity, it also provides many potential therapeutic targets. Oligomeric intermediates play a central role in the pathology of disorders of protein misfolding. New intervention strategies involving natural compounds have emerged that target this point in the amyloid cascade. While some of these, for example, the polyphenol EGCG, show significant therapeutic potential, there are still numerous practical hurdles that have to be overcome before successful therapeutic application.

Natural Compounds May Open New Routes to Treatment of Amyloid Diseases
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3701768/

Considering the evidence presented above, the use of EGCG in amyloidogenic neurodegenerative diseases is a very promising therapeutic tool, since it has been used in pre-clinical and clinical studies to treat several amyloidoses. Figure 2 (above) summarizes the interference and anti-amyloid effects of EGCG in different steps of protein aggregation and amyloid formation.

Green Tea Polyphenol Epigallocatechin-Gallate in Amyloid Aggregation and Neurodegenerative Diseases
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8477582/

Additionally, EGCG is beneficial in potentially reducing the replication of SARS-CoV-2, inhibiting infection – and exposure to the Spike Protein.

There are many reports supporting the efficacy of green tea against coronavirus. Green tea polyphenols, including EGCG, have been reported to inhibit several coronavirus proteins. Moreover, green tea polyphenols have been shown to inhibit coronavirus replication, including SARS-CoV-2. In addition, a preliminary epidemiological study and small-scale clinical study suggest that the consumption of green tea can be beneficial for patients with COVID-19.

Epigallocatechin Gallate (EGCG), a Green Tea Polyphenol, Reduces Coronavirus Replication in a Mouse Model
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8704347/

I have been a lifelong lover of tea. I collect Pu Er, a fantastic aged tea from China, which I highly recommend. May we all raise a cup of tea together in hope for ameliorating this scourge of a protein.

Shaped in tuo cha (bird nest) of 250g by the Xiaguan tea factory, this 30 years old Pu Er is to be tasted with attention and care.

A generous rinse allows aromas of damp undergrowth and roots (beetroot) to prepare the infusion of a clear mineral liquor, deeply marked by notes of lichen and black earth.

The sharp and slightly metallic attack slowly evolves towards a sweet finish with fine accents of berries, spices (anise) and camphor.

A rare tea, deep and long lasting in taste, enhanced by subtle soothing effects.

PU ER SHENG 1986 XIA GUAN
https://camellia-sinensis.com/en/pu-er-sheng-1986-xia-guan/4457