Meta Information
ID:l-ergothioneine
Name:L-Ergothioneine
Schema Version:1.5
Alternate Names
- Ergothioneine
- ET
- EGT
Active Compound
L-Ergothioneine
Intervention Type
therapeutic_agent
Delivery
Route:
oral
Scope:
- systemic
Regulatory Status
- us:dietary_supplement
- eu:novel_food
Indication
Focus:
healthspan
Description:
A naturally occurring amino acid with potent antioxidant and cytoprotective properties, potentially mitigating age-related cellular damage.
Typical Protocol
- Typical daily doses in supplements range from 5 mg to 30 mg.
Expected Cost Mean
Low Cost:
20
High Cost:
50
Cost Type:
monthly
Description:
Cost for a monthly supply of oral supplements, not covered by insurance.
Summary
L-Ergothioneine is a unique antioxidant amino acid that humans cannot synthesize and must obtain from diet, primarily mushrooms. It accumulates in cells via a specific transporter (ETT/OCTN1), protecting mitochondria and DNA from oxidative damage. Its potential role as a 'longevity vitamin' is based on its ability to counteract cellular stress, a key driver of aging.
Purpose
A potent cellular antioxidant that protects against age-related damage.
Card Summary
A diet-derived antioxidant amino acid that protects cells from oxidative stress.
Drug Class
Drugs In Class
Empty Array
Impact
Score:
3.5
Justification:
Plausible mechanism but lacks human RCTs demonstrating significant healthspan or lifespan extension.
Evidence
Grade:
C
Score:
3.8
Justification:
Strong mechanistic rationale and observational data, but lacks human intervention trials for longevity.
Safety
Score:
2.5
Justification:
Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS) status and excellent safety profile in studies.
Flags
- No significant adverse effects or drug interactions have been reported at typical doses.
Verdict
A safe, promising antioxidant, but its healthspan benefits remain largely unproven.
Created
2026-05-06T21:59:36.572912Z
Ai Model
Gemini 2.5 Pro (High)