Green tea has long been believed to have a variety of health benefits. One of the most important benefits is the preventive and treatment effects against cancer, which are mainly attributed to polyphenolic compounds, such as epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG), a powerful natural antioxidant found in green tea. 

The anti-cancer effect of EGCG has been extensively demonstrated in epidemiological, cell culture, and animal studies, as well as in clinical trials. However there has been limited success in clarifying how this anti-cancer effect works at the molecular level, raising uncertainty about green tea’s value in cancer therapy.

The uncertainty was eased by a recent study, where scientists identified and validated a direct interaction between EGCG in green tea and the tumor suppressor protein p53, also known as “the guardian of the genome.” This interaction prevents p53 from degradation, meaning that EGCG has a protective effect for the tumor suppressor protein, which in turn guards cells against cancer. This work provides molecular insights into the mechanisms for EGCG’s anti-cancer activity and serves as strong evidence for the extraordinary benefit of consuming green tea.