Ergothioneine Research Guide

Full name: L-Ergothioneine

A rare sulfur-containing amino acid derived from mushrooms and certain bacteria, dubbed "the longevity vitamin." The body has a dedicated transporter (OCTN1) that concentrates it in tissues under oxidative stress, and low levels correlate with age-related disease.

How Ergothioneine Works

Accumulates via the OCTN1 transporter in mitochondria and other high-stress cellular compartments, where it scavenges reactive oxygen species, chelates metals, protects DNA and mitochondria, and preserves other antioxidants.

Dosing Protocol

• Typical dose: 5-25 mg per day
• Frequency: Once daily
• Duration: Ongoing
• Route: Oral capsule

Reported Benefits

• Potent cellular and mitochondrial antioxidant
• Long tissue retention
• DNA and lipid protection
• Neuroprotective potential
• Associated with lower age-related disease risk
• Anti-inflammatory

Potential Side Effects

• No established side effects
• Considered very well tolerated

Research Citations

1. Ergothioneine as a longevity vitamin (2020) - Proposed as a diet-derived compound whose deficiency is linked to increased risk of age-related chronic disease.
2. Low ergothioneine predicts cardiovascular risk (2019) - Higher plasma ergothioneine was associated with lower cardiovascular and all-cause mortality in a large cohort.

Related Detox & Antioxidant Compounds

• Glutathione (IV/IM) - Full Profile
• NAC - Full Profile
• EDTA Chelation - Full Profile
• Activated Charcoal - Full Profile
• PQQ - Full Profile
• TUDCA - Full Profile

View full Ergothioneine profile with 3D molecule viewer →