ergothioneine

Ergothioneine is a naturally occurring amino acid and a thiourea derivative of histidine, containing a sulfur atom on the imidazole ring. It is produced by certain bacteria and fungi but not by humans or animals; instead, it is acquired exclusively through the diet, with mushrooms being the richest source. In humans, ergothioneine accumulates in various tissues including erythrocytes (red blood cells), bone marrow, liver, kidney, seminal fluid, and eyes[3]. It acts as an antioxidant and cytoprotective agent in vitro and may be concentrated at sites of tissue injury[4]. Its precise physiological role in humans remains under investigation. Ergothioneine has been studied for potential benefits in conditions such as liver damage, cataracts, Alzheimer's disease, diabetes, heart disease[2], and for skin aging when applied topically. It is sold as a dietary supplement but does not have established pharmaceutical indications or approved medical uses.

Other names

1-carboxy-2-[2-mercaptoimidazole-4-(or 5)-yl]ethyl]-trimethyl-ammonium hydroxide2-Mercaptohistidine TrimethylbetaineErgothionéineErgotioneinaErythrothioneineETS-alpha-carboxy-2,3-dihydro-N,N-N,-trimethyl-thioxo-1H-imidazole-4 ethanaminium hydroxideSympectothionThiasineThiazineThiolhistidinebetaineThioneineThionéineThiozine