Tea catechins as inhibitors of receptor tyrosine kinases: Mechanistic insights and human relevance

Receptor tyrosine kinases (RTKs) play important roles in the control of fundamental cellular processes, influencing the balance between cell proliferation and death. RTKs have emerged as molecular targets for the treatment of various cancers. Green tea and its polyphenolic compounds, the catechins, exhibit chemopreventive and chemotherapeutic properties in many human cancer cell types, as well as in various carcinogenicity models in vivo. Epidemiological studies are somewhat less convincing, but some positive correlations have been observed. The tea catechins, including (−)-epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG), have pleiotropic effects on cellular proteins and signaling pathways. This review focuses on the ability of the tea constituents to suppress RTK signaling, and summarizes the mechanisms by which EGCG and other catechins might exert their protective effects towards dysregulated RTKs in cancer cells. The findings are discussed in the context of ongoing clinical trials with RTK inhibitors, and the possibility for drug/nutrient interactions enhancing therapeutic efficacy.

Receptor tyrosine kinases (RTKs) play important roles in fundamental cellular processes and have emerged as molecular targets for cancer therapy. Green tea catechins, such as (−)-epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG), exhibit chemopreventive and therapeutic properties. This review focuses on the suppression of RTK signaling, including the ability of EGCG to interact with the Met receptor and interfere with downstream signaling pathways that have gone awry in cancer cells.Figure optionsDownload as PowerPoint slide