Systemic epigallocatechin gallate protects against retinal degeneration and hepatic oxidative stress in the P23H-1 rat.

Retinitis pigmentosa (RP) is a group of inherited retinal disorders that lead to photoreceptor loss. RP has been reported to be related to oxidative stress, autophagy, and inflammation. (-)-Epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), the most abundant catechin-based flavonoid in green tea leaves, has significant antioxidant, anti-carcinogenic, antimicrobial, and neuroprotective properties.