Epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG) as a molecular chaperone and network rebalancer in neurodegenerative diseases.

Epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG), the primary catechin in green tea, has emerged as a paradigmatic multi-target molecule capable of modulating convergent molecular processes underlying neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's. Through its dual action as a molecular chaperone and signalling rebalancer, EGCG redefines the concept of natural compounds as network regulators rather than isolated antioxidants. This review integrates mechanistic, biochemical, and translational insights to elucidate how EGCG influences protein aggregation, neuroinflammation, redox signalling, and synaptic resilience, and proposes future molecular engineering strategies to enhance its therapeutic potential.