Ergothioneine

Ergothioneine is a naturally occurring amino acid that functions as a potent antioxidant and cellular protectant. Humans and other animals cannot produce ergothioneine, but must acquire it from their diet, primarily from fungi and bacteria. Some scientists refer to it as a "longevity vitamin" due to its potential anti-aging and anti-inflammatory properties. 

Ergothioneine  was first discovered in 1909 in Ergot fungus.

Ergothioneine is found mainly in mushrooms, as well as red and black beans. It is also found in animals that have eaten grasses containing ergothioneine.

Ergothioneine can scavenge reactive oxygen and nitrogen species and thereby mitigate oxidative damage to biological molecules that contribute to chronic human diseases.

Key functions

• Antioxidant: Ergothioneine actively neutralizes harmful reactive oxygen and nitrogen species, protecting cells from oxidative damage that contributes to aging and disease. Its chemical structure is especially stable against auto-oxidation compared to other antioxidants like glutathione.
• Cellular Protection: It is highly concentrated in tissues and cells that are frequently exposed to oxidative stress, including red blood cells, the liver, kidneys, and the lenses of the eyes. It is also found in high concentrations within the mitochondria, protecting the cellular powerhouses from damage.
• Anti-inflammatory Effects: Ergothioneine has been shown to reduce inflammation by inhibiting pro-inflammatory signaling pathways in the body. 

Because mammals cannot synthesize ergothioneine, they rely on dietary sources, with mushrooms being the richest source. 

Mushrooms: Species like oyster, shiitake, and king bolete contain high levels of ergothioneine. The amount can vary widely depending on the type and growing conditions.

• Other foods: Other sources include black beans, oats, and certain fermented foods, though these generally contain lower amounts than mushrooms.
• Agricultural practices: Soil-borne fungi and bacteria produce ergothioneine and pass it to plants. Farming methods that damage fungal populations in the soil, such as intensive tilling, can reduce the ergothioneine content in crops. 

Health benefits under investigation

Research suggests that higher ergothioneine levels may be linked to several health benefits, particularly related to aging and chronic diseases. 

• Cardiovascular health: Some studies have found that higher blood levels of ergothioneine correlate with a lower risk of cardiovascular disease and overall mortality.

• Neuroprotection: Ergothioneine can cross the blood-brain barrier and has shown protective effects on neurons. Low levels of ergothioneine have been observed in patients with neurodegenerative diseases like Parkinson's.

• Anti-aging: Ergothioneine has demonstrated potential to combat several age-related conditions, from cognitive decline to skin aging caused by UV radiation. It is included in some skincare products for its protective properties.