Summary
L-Ergothioneine (EGT, CAS: 497-30-3) is a rare chiral amino acid that has multiple cell physiological protective functions, including scavenging free radicals, detoxifying, maintaining DNA biosynthesis, and promoting Cells grow normally, strengthen the cellular immune system, provide anti-radiation, whitening and anti-aging properties. Due to its excellent performance, it can be applied to many fields. In the field of cosmetics, it can be used for anti-aging and can be made into sunscreen and other products.
Cosmetic Applications:
In the cosmetic industry, L-Ergothioneine finds use in anti-aging formulations and can be incorporated into sunscreen and other products, contributing to skin health and appearance.
Medical Applications:
In the medical field, L-Ergothioneine can be utilized for treating inflammation, among other applications. It can be formulated into tablets, capsules, oral preparations, etc., offering diverse options for therapeutic interventions.
Healthcare Products:
In the realm of healthcare products, L-Ergothioneine demonstrates potential in preventing the occurrence of cancer. It can be incorporated into functional foods, functional drinks, and other products, making it a valuable component for enhancing health and well-being. Notably, it has been included in the EU new resource food list.
Food Industry Applications:
L-Ergothioneine has received new food approval in Europe, confirming its safety for consumption. Studies have estimated daily intake levels for different age groups, ensuring that they remain below the safe level (NOAEL). Its preventive effect on abnormal embryonic development in diabetic pregnant mice and its role as an indicator of heat treatment of milk further establish its safety and effectiveness in the food field.
Dietary Intake and Safety Evaluation:
The Committee on Dietetic Products, Nutrition, and Allergy (NDA) evaluated synthetic L-Ergothioneine as a novel food, determining maximum daily intake levels for different populations. The study concluded that L-Ergothioneine is safe for infants, young children, and adults (including pregnant and lactating women) at proposed levels of use, with substantial safety margins.
Reproductive Safety Research:
Research on reproductive safety indicates that L-Ergothioneine, when administered to diabetic pregnant rats, reduces the incidence of embryonic malformations, demonstrating its antioxidant preventive mechanism.
Effects on Embryonic Development:
L-Ergothioneine's impact on abnormal embryonic development in diabetic pregnant rats highlights its antioxidant role in inhibiting glucose-mediated free radical-dependent embryonic malformations.
Indicators of Heat Treatment of Milk:
L-Ergothioneine serves as an indicator of heat treatment in milk, and its concentration in different categories of commercial milk can be efficiently determined through chromatographic methods.
Toxicological and Mutagenic Potential:
Recent studies confirm that L-Ergothioneine and its natural biomimetic agents do not exhibit toxicity or mutagenicity in various experiments, supporting its safety as a dietary supplement.
Properties
- Structural Features: L-Ergothioneine is a low molecular weight natural product that contains sulfur, nitrogen, and oxygen functional groups, which give it unique physicochemical properties.
Antioxidant Activity: L-Ergothioneine is a potent antioxidant capable of scavenging free radicals and protecting cells from oxidative stress.
Solubility: L-Ergothioneine is highly soluble in water, which allows it to be easily distributed and function within biological systems.
Biosynthesis: L-Ergothioneine is synthesized by certain bacteria and fungi, and the human body cannot synthesize it on its own; it must be obtained through diet.
Stability: L-Ergothioneine does not degrade at high temperatures, indicating that it remains stable during food processing.
Physiological Functions: L-Ergothioneine has various physiological functions in the human body, including maintaining DNA biosynthesis, normal cell growth, and cellular immunity.
Safety: As a natural antioxidant, L-Ergothioneine is safe and non-toxic, making it a hot topic of research.