Ergothioneine is a natural antioxidant that plays a protective role for cells within the human body, acting as a significant bioactive substance. As a natural antioxidant, its safety and non-toxic nature have made it a focus of research. Ergothioneine, gaining visibility as an antioxidant, is known for scavenging free radicals, detoxification, maintaining the biosynthesis of DNA, normal cell growth, and cellular immunity, among various other physiological functions. This natural molecule, isolated from the claviceps purpurea fungus found in rye, has also been identified in the red blood cells and liver of rats and many other animal tissues. Its antioxidant properties may offer combined therapeutic potential, or it could serve as a food additive or in cosmetics.

Uses: L-Ergothioneine, isolated from the claviceps purpurea fungus in rye, was later discovered in the red blood cells and liver of rats as well as in various other animal tissues. The oxidative characteristics could contribute to the compound’s therapeutic potential, or it could be utilized as a food additive or in cosmetics.

Distribution: Ergothioneine is present in certain tissues and organs of mammals, primarily in red blood cells (approximately 1–2 mmol/L) and in the semen of some animals. Although no experimental studies have shown that any animal can synthesize this substance, there must be mechanisms within animal cells to absorb and retain ergothioneine. For carnivorous animals, ergothioneine in animal tissues could meet dietary requirements. Research by Melville D.B and Eich S also found the presence of ergothioneine in cereal plants.

Biological Action: Ergothioneine is a potent hypochlorous acid (HOCl) scavenger, and while many compounds react with hypochlorous acid, few can react as quickly as ergothioneine. Alpha-1-antiproteinase inhibitors (APIs), like elastase, are particularly sensitive to hypochlorous acid, yet ergothioneine at physiological concentrations is highly effective in protecting APIs against the inactivation caused by hypoch