Epigallocatechin gallate and its antifungal profiles

Fungi are among the most prevalent pathogens in humans, which cause a wide range of infections from mild superficial to chronic subcutaneous and potentially fatal systemic mycoses. Antifungal medications remain the cornerstone management. However, they are associated with significant adverse effects, and hampered by increasing antifungal resistance. Effective and safe alternative compounds were investigated for their antifungal activity, including epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG). EGCG was most extensively studied against Candida species, showing potential anticandidal activity against planktonic cells and biofilms. EGCG showed more potent action than other green tea catechins and synergistic action with antifungal medications even against some antifungal-resistant Candida. Existing studies on EGCG against dermatophytes and other fungal infections were still scarce, but some studies showed the potential antifungal activity of EGCG against Trichophyton, Microsporum, and Aspergillus. EGCG produced its antifungal activity mainly by damaging the cell wall and membrane, also by inhibiting ergosterol synthesis, and inducting apoptosis.