Effect of Epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) on Production of Dendritic Cells from Peripheral Blood Monocytes

Background and purpose: Dendritic cells are professional antigen presenting cells that initiate and modulate immune responses. Epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) is identified as a prophylactic agent that can suppress tumor formation. This research aimed at investigating the effect of EGCG on differentiation of dendritic cells from monocytes and as a potential substitute for IL-4 in this process. Materials and methods: In this experimental study, blood samples were drawn and peripheral blood mononuclear cells were isolated using FICOL. The monocytes CD14 + were purified by MACS. EGCG was added in 5 μmol / l and 10 μmol / l. On days six and eight, the cells were analyzed and differentiation factors such as CD83, HLA-DR, and CD-b were evaluated using flow cytometry. In addition, IL-23 and IL-35 levels were measured. Results: CD-11 and CD11b levels in mature and immature dendritic cells were significantly different between the two paths (P<0.05), HLA-DR levels were also significantly different in dendritic cells (P<0.05). IL-23 and IL-35 levels in mature and immature dendritic cells were not significantly different, whereas these levels in mature dendritic cells showed significant differences between the two paths (P<0.05). Conclusion: This study showed that EGCG compared to IL-4 can initiate monocyte differentiation to dendritic cells and this molecule can turn monocytes to dendritic cells with tolerogenic qualities compared to the classic path.