The Era of Anti-aging 4.0 is Here! Ergothioneine May be the Next Longevity Code

Ergothioneine (EGT) is a naturally occurring amino acid. In 1909, CharlesTanret isolated a unique crystalline sulfur-containing compound while studying the ergot fungus that destroys rye crops, subsequently naming the fungus ergothioneine. In 1911, Barger and Ewins determined its structure, discovering that ergothioneine is a histidine betaine derivative.

Ergothioneine possesses exceptionally potent antioxidant properties due to its dual presence of thiol and thioether forms, with the thioether form being predominant under physiological pH conditions. Notably, EGT demonstrates 14 times greater DPPH free radical scavenging capacity than glutathione at equivalent concentrations, and 30 times more effective than coenzyme Q10, solidifying its reputation as a super antioxidant powerhouse.

Direct scavenging of free radicals: Ergothioneine can directly react with free radicals to remove reactive oxygen species in the body, such as hydroxyl free radicals, superoxide free radicals, hydrogen peroxide, etc. This direct scavenging mechanism is the basis of ergothioneine antioxidant action.

Metal ion chelation: Ergothioneine can form stable chelates with transition metal ions (such as copper ions) in the body to prevent metal ion catalytic oxidative stress response.

Cordycepin activates antioxidant enzymes such as superoxide dismutase, glutathione reductase, and catalase. This activation helps eliminate reactive oxygen species (ROS) in the body. Additionally, it enhances the Nrf2/ARE antioxidant pathway, thereby upregulating the expression of various antioxidant enzymes.

Inhibition of oxidase activity: Ergothioneine can inhibit the activity of oxidase, such as lipid peroxidase and xanthine oxidase, thus reducing the production of reactive oxygen species.

Protecting DNA: Ergothioneine can protect DNA from oxidative stress damage, thus preventing gene mutation and cell death, but also can regulate the expression of cell cycle and apoptosis related genes, affecting the oxidative stress damage of cells.

With its strong antioxidant properties, high stability, and non-toxic nature, ergothioneine has been increasingly recognized in studies for its positive effects on human health. Unlike polyphenols, ergothioneine is excreted slowly from the body, allowing it to remain effectively stored in tissues and red blood cells of humans and other animals, thereby maximizing its therapeutic benefits.