Figure 6. Mechanism of EGCG-induced V_L precipitation.

Native monomers can be converted via partially unfolded intermediates into amyloid fibrils. EGCG can bind either to P59 (low affinity, no precipitation) or to P44 (higher affinity). More EGCG molecules are recruited to the P44 binding site, which in turn results in association of further proteins. Locally increased protein concentration and partial unfolding, as it presumably occurs prior to amyloid formation, are favourable conditions for precipitation.