What Is Ergothioneine
L Ergothioneine (EGT) is an antioxidant amino acid. It was first discovered by French pharmacist Charles Tanret in 1909 while studying the ergot fungus that destroyed rye grains. There are two isomers in nature: L (left-handed) and D (right-handed). Ergothioneine usually exists in the form of L-EGT, and the D form has low or no activity.
The human body cannot directly synthesize EGT and can only obtain it through diet. It is found in various foods, including mushrooms, grains, and animal products, and is also produced by some bacteria and fungi.
Ergothioneine has a unique chemical structure that contains a thiol (sulfur-containing) group, which is responsible for its antioxidant properties. This thiol group allows ergothioneine to scavenge reactive oxygen species (ROS) and other free radicals, thus protecting cells from oxidative stress and damage.
What Foods Are High In Ergothioneine
| Sources |
Ergothioneine Content |
| Flammulina populicola | 48.00 |
| Flammulina velutipes |
298.00 |
| Lentinula edodes | 284.00 |
| Pleurotus cornucopiae |
2082.00 |
| Pleurotus eryngii |
317.00 |
| Black Turtle Bean |
13.49 |
| Red Kidney Bean | 4.52 |
| Garlic | 3.11 |
| Broccoli |
0.24 |
| Oat Bran |
4.41
|
How EGT Works
EGT is transported into mitochondria, the important "energy factory" for life activities, through the transporter OCTN1 on the cell membrane and mitochondrial membrane, where it exerts antioxidant functions, inhibits DNA damage, effectively protects against ultraviolet damage, protects cells, and prevents photoaging.
At the same time, it has the ability to scavenge free radicals, reduce lipid peroxidation, and promote the body’s own antioxidant enzymes.
What Are The Benefits Of Ergothioneine
Ergothioneine Benefits
Antioxidant Activity
L Ergothioneine is a powerful antioxidant that can scavenge reactive oxygen species (ROS) and other free radicals. ROS and free radicals are harmful byproducts of cellular metabolism that can damage cells and lead to chronic diseases such as cardiovascular disease and cancer. By neutralizing these harmful molecules, ergothioneine can protect cells from oxidative stress and damage.
Cellular Protection
It has been shown to protect cells from various types of damage, including damage caused by UV radiation, chemical toxins, and oxidative stress. It can also help maintain the normal function of mitochondria, the energy-producing organelles in cells.
Cardiovascular Health
Oxidative stress and inflammation play a role in the development of cardiovascular disease. Some studies suggest that ergothioneine powder may help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the cardiovascular system, thus promoting heart health.
Neuroprotection
Oxidative stress and free radical damage have been implicated in the development of neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson's disease. Ergothioneine's antioxidant properties may help protect brain cells from this damage, thus slowing down the progression of these diseases.
Skin Health
It has been shown to protect skin cells from UV radiation damage, which can lead to premature aging and skin cancer. It may also help maintain the health of skin cells by protecting them from oxidative stress and inflammation.
Ergothioneine Applications
Cosmetics are one of the most widely used fields of EGT. The United States and Europe are the largest markets for the use of EGT. They regard EGT as a fifth-generation antioxidant and are used in various big-name cosmetics.
In Europe, America, Japan and other countries and regions, the application of EGT has been extended to the food field.
In addition, L-EGT aqueous solution also has good food preservation effect. Studies have shown that treating postharvest Agaricus bisporus with L-EGT solution can slow down their browning and extend their shelf life.
Is Ergothioneine Safe
Ergothioneine is likely safe when used in amounts found in foods. But there isn't enough information to know if ergothioneine is safe when taken as a supplement for medical purposes.
Existing evidence from population intervention studies on EGT shows that EGT is an independent marker for a lower risk of cardiometabolic disease and death, and that greater intake of EGT-rich mushroom foods is positively associated with better cognitive function and is associated with better cognitive function. There are no relevant reports on the unsafe use of EGT.
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