Green Tea May Prevent Uterine Fibroids
Researchers from Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine have found that epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), the potent anitoxidant compound found in green tea, may effectively prevent and treat uterine fibroids. Their study, published in Scientific Reports, utilized human fibroid cells grown in vitro that were exposed to EGCG extract. The team then observed the effect on protein expression in the cells, in particular the proteins fibronectin, cyclin D1, and connective tissue growth factor (CTGF). They found that EGCG reduced protein levels of fibronectin by 46% to 52%, and reduced CTGF proteins by as much as 86%, which disrupted the pathways necessary for tumor cell growth.
These findings provide additional support for the ongoing FRIEND (Fibroids and Unexplained Infertility Treatment With Epigallocatechin Gallate; A Natural Compound in Green Tea) clinical trial in progress that is investigating the effect of EGCG in women with fibroids during pregnancy. However, although these results are indeed promising, the scientists caution against relying on green tea supplements as a treatment option at this time. That said, and with so many other benefits associated with drinking green tea in general, there's no reason not to put the kettle on and enjoy a cup or two per day.
by Karyn Maier
Reference
Md Soriful Islam, Maclaine Parish, Joshua T. Brennan, Briana L. Winer, James H. Segars. Targeting fibrotic signaling pathways by EGCG as a therapeutic strategy for uterine fibroids. Scientific Reports, 2023
