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AAT Bioquest

What is EGCG and what does it have to do with zinc?

Posted April 14, 2022


Answer

EGCG stands for Epigallocatechin-3-gallate. It is a unique type of plant-based compound commonly known as catechin. Chemically it is the ester of epigallocatechin and gallic acid.  EGCG plays an important role in enhancing the absorption of zinc into the body’s cells. It can also act as an ionosphere to help transport zinc across the cell merane. 

Additional resources

Epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG): chemical and biomedical perspectives

Amplite™ Fluorimetric Zinc Ion Quantitation Kit