Electronic States of Epigallocatechin-3-Gallate in Water and in 1,2-Dipalmitoyl-sn-Glycero-3-Phospho-(1′-Rac-Glycerol) (Sodium Salt) Liposomes

This study explores the electronic states of Epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG) in water and its interaction with DPPG liposomes using VUV photo-absorption measurements and DFT calculations. It finds a strong correlation between experimental and theoretical data, with solvent inclusion enhancing this agreement. The VUV spectrum of EGCG in water shows seven absorption bands, and the DPPG-EGCG complex exhibits an intense peak at 150 nm due to electron transfer transitions. The research highlights EGCG's potential in protecting cellular membranes from UV-induced damage, emphasizing its antioxidant properties and relevance for applications in food packaging, cosmetics, and cancer therapeutics.