Multiple-organ failure (MOF) is defined as the progressive deterioration in function which occurs in several organs or systems in patients with septic shock, multiple trauma, severe burns, or pancreatitis. In the present study, we have investigated the effects of Green Tea extract (GTE) on the development of general inflammation caused by zymosan (500 mg/kg, administered i.p. as a suspension in saline) in mice. Organ failure and systemic inflammation in mice was assessed 18 hours after administration of zymosan and/or GTE and monitored for 12 days (for loss of body weight and mortality). Treatment of mice with GTE (25 mg/kg i.p., 1 and 6 hours after zymosan) attenuated the peritoneal exudation and the migration of polymorphonuclear cells (PMNs) caused by zymosan, GTE also attenuated the lung, liver and pancreatic injury and renal dysfunction caused by zymosan as well as the increase in myeloperoxidase (MPO) activity caused by zymosan in the lung and intestine. Immunohistochemical analysis for inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), nitrotyrosine and poly(ADP-ribose) (PAR) revealed positive staining in lung and intestine tissues obtained from zymosan-treated mice. The degree of staining for nitrotyrosine, iNOS and PAR were markedly reduced in tissue sections obtained from zymosan-treated mice, which received GTE. In conclusion this study provides evidence, for the first time, that GTE attenuates the degree of zymosan induced generalized inflammation in mice.