Inventory the synthesis method, health characteristics, and implementation path of the "anti-aging miracle drug" ergotamine ..
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- Issue Time
- Nov 18,2025
Summary
Ergothionein (EGT) is a sulfur-containing amino acid produced by fungi and some bacteria, which the human body cannot synthesize on its own and relies entirely on dietary supplementation.
Its chemical formula is C ₉ H ₁₅ N ∝ O ₂ S, and it exists in a stable "thione" form at physiological pH, with good thermal stability and excellent antioxidant and safety properties. It does not trigger the Fenton reaction and avoids the potential pro oxidative side effects of traditional antioxidants.
As a natural and efficient antioxidant and anti-inflammatory substance, EGT protects the cardiovascular system through a dual core mechanism.
In terms of antioxidant properties, it can directly eliminate various reactive oxygen species (ROS) such as singlet oxygen and hydrogen peroxide, activate the NRF2 pathway to upregulate endogenous antioxidant enzyme expression, synergistically enhance with vitamin C, glutathione, and inhibit oxidative reactions by chelating metal ions.
In terms of anti-inflammatory effects, it can inhibit NF - κ B, the "master switch" of inflammation, reduce the production of pro-inflammatory factors, and regulate pathways such as MAPK and PI3K/Akt. Its anti-inflammatory effectiveness has been demonstrated in various disease models.
Specifically, EGT can protect endothelial cells, delay their aging, resist damage, and promote repair;
It can inhibit the formation of plaque and lipid deposition at the beginning and progression of atherosclerosis;
Related to reduced risk of hypertension, especially in reducing the risk of preeclampsia in pregnant women and improving related symptoms;
It can also reduce the area of myocardial infarction, resist the cardiotoxicity of chemotherapy, and reduce the damage of diabetes cardiomyopathy.
However, current research is mostly focused on basic scientific research and animal experiments, lacking large-scale high-quality clinical trials. In the future, ergotamine is expected to be developed as a dietary supplement or adjuvant therapy drug, providing a new path for the prevention and treatment of CVD.
1、 In 1909, French scholars first isolated ergothionein from ergot fungus, but it was only defined as a "fungal metabolite" for half a century.
In the mid-20th century, scientists confirmed that mushrooms are only synthesized by bacteria and fungi. Mushrooms are the main dietary source for humans and have high antioxidant properties.
Three breakthroughs in the 21st century lay the foundation for oral administration.
In 2005, the exclusive transporter protein OCTN1 was discovered to ensure its precise entry into human cells;
In 2015, a Chinese team revealed its anti infective effect in Nature, breaking the notion of "only antioxidant";
In 2018, the concept of "longevity vitamin" listed it as a candidate, confirming its value in protecting mitochondria and safeguarding multi tissue health.
2、 Chinese enterprises lead the 'cost reduction revolution'
The early mushroom extraction method cost tens of millions of yuan/kg, but now three technological paths are driving its popularization.
Chemical synthesis: The earliest industrialization but with low yield and high cost, French companies once obtained EU certification through this, but now it has become an auxiliary solution.
Chemistry+Enzyme Catalysis: The backbone pathway involves the chemical synthesis of precursors, followed by enzymatic reactions to produce products, with short steps and high efficiency.
Precision fermentation: the future core track, through the transformation of microorganisms to synthesize independently, green and pollution-free. Chinese and American companies are competing for efficient strain development, while Chinese companies are forming a "Chinese solution" through gene editing and fermentation accumulation.
3、 The market landing of ergotamine health products. Due to the inability of the human body to synthesize autonomously, it became the first commercial scenario.
European and American brands focus on selling points such as antioxidant and mitochondrial anti-aging, and can quickly increase production.
Ordinary food. With stability and heat resistance, it has entered daily food such as European and American beverages and chocolates, achieving the integration of "function+daily".
Natural preservation. Mushroom extract can prevent seafood from turning black and maintain meat flavor, making it an alternative to chemical preservatives.
4、 The current approval pattern
The European Union listed it as a new type of food in 2016, the United States granted GRAS certification in 2019 (fermentation sources will be opened in 2025), and Japan allowed food applications in 2021, promoting Europe and America as core markets.
On the Chinese side, 7 applications for new food ingredients have been received since 2024, and 6 are under "deferred review". The industry believes that with the accumulation of clinical and industrialization experience by domestic enterprises, the approval process is expected to break through.
