EGCG induces degradation of active folate in serum via H2O2 generation, while L-ascorbic acid effectively reverses this effect

• Published in: Biochemistry and biophysics reports 2024-07, Vol.38, p.101719-101719, Article 101719
• Main Authors: Zhou, Guangbin, Zhang, Mengmeng, Sun, Xiaoyu, Huang, Ting, Hou, Kun, Zhou, Siqi, Yin, Jun, Guan, Liping
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: 5-methyltetrahydrofolate; Epigallocatechin gallate; Hydrogen peroxide; L-ascorbic acid; Pro-oxidant
• ISSN: 2405-5808; 2405-5808
• DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrep.2024.101719

Empirical studies have indicated that excessive tea consumption may potentially decrease folate levels within the human body. The main active component in green tea, epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), significantly reduces the concentration of 5-methyltetrahydrofolate (5-MTHF) in both solution and serum. However, our findings also demonstrate that the pro-degradation effect of EGCG on 5-MTHF can be reversed by L-ascorbic acid (AA). Subsequent investigations suggest that EGCG could potentially expedite the degradation of 5-MTHF by generating hydrogen peroxide. In summary, excessive tea intake may lead to reduced folate levels in the bloodstream, yet timely supplementation of AA could potentially safeguard folate from degradation. •Epigallocatechin gallate leads to a decrease in the levels of 5-methyltetrahydrofolate in serum and solution.•The inhibitory impact of Epigallocatechin gallate can be reversed by l-ascorbic acid.•Epigallocatechin gallate may exert an anti-folate effect by generating H2O2.