Investigation of Signaling Pathways Modulated by Epigallocatechin-3-Gallate (EGCG) in an Animal Model of Myelodysplastic Syndrome

• Grant number: 25/06281-9
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Scientific Initiation
• Start date: October 01, 2025
• End date: September 30, 2026
• Field of knowledge: Health Sciences - Medicine - Medical Clinics
• Principal Investigator: Sara Teresinha Olalla Saad
• Grantee: Murilo Jorge Lutfi
• Host Institution: Centro de Hematologia e Hemoterapia (HEMOCENTRO). Universidade Estadual de Campinas (UNICAMP). Campinas , SP, Brazil

Abstract

Myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) is a myeloid neoplasm characterized by bone marrow dysfunction and risk of progression to leukemia. Previous studies by our group have shown that epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG), a green tea polyphenol, induces extramedullary hematopoiesis and splenomegaly in NUP98 transgenic mice (MDS model), associated with Stat3 phosphorylation, even after 60 days of treatment suspension. These effects contrast with the anti-tumor benefits observed in immune suppressed models, suggesting complex mechanisms of action of EGCG. This project aims to validate key genes identified by RNA-seq in critical pathways (JAK/STAT, Hedgehog, oxidative response) to elucidate pathophysiological mechanisms and identify therapeutic targets. The methodology includes validation by qPCR and immunohistochemistry, correlating gene expression with cell proliferation phenotypes and oxidative stress. These results are expected to contribute to personalized therapeutic strategies for MDS.