 |
| L-Ergothioneine (EGT) |
L-Ergothioneine (EGT) is an unusual amino acid that is not produced by the human body. Instead, it is obtained through diet and provides various health benefits. This article explores the fascinating properties of EGT, its role in the body and importance for well-being.
What is EGT?
L-ERGOTHIONEINE
(EGT) is a stable, hydrophilic
amino acid derived from cysteine. It is synthesised by certain fungi, bacteria
and plants through a multi-step biosynthetic pathway. Unlike other amino acids,
EGT has a thiol group that allows it to act as a biological antioxidant. This
unique molecular structure gives EGT advantages over other antioxidants when
fighting oxidative stress.
Some key facts about EGT include:
- Naturally found in foods like mushrooms, liver, kidney and occasional plant
sources. Mushrooms are by far the richest dietary source.
- Absorbed intact from foods and taken up by tissues including the skin, eyes,
brain and reproductive organs.
- Functions as a "protective antioxidant" by directly scavenging
reactive oxygen and nitrogen species.
- Also supports antioxidant enzyme activity to boost cellular defense against
oxidative damage.
Role in Mitigating Oxidative Stress
As one of the body's most effective antioxidants, EGT plays an important role
in reducing oxidative stress. Excessive free radicals and reactive oxygen
species damage cells and lead to inflammation. EGT is able to scavenge these
compounds better than other antioxidants due to its stable thiol group.
Studies show EGT protects biomolecules like DNA, proteins and lipids from
oxidation. It also supports antioxidant enzyme systems like glutathione and
superoxide dismutase. The direct and indirect antioxidant activities of EGT
help maintain a reducing antioxidant environment in cells and tissues. This
prevents oxidative stress associated with aging and various diseases.
Brain Health and Neuroprotection
The brain is very susceptible to oxidative stress due to its high metabolic
rate and oxygen usage. EGT accumulation in the brain and eyes suggests it plays
a vital role in neurological health. Studies have found that higher EGT levels
correlate with better cognitive performance in elderly individuals.
Animals studies show that EGT supplementation protects brain cells against
oxidative damage. It inhibits neuroinflammation related to neurodegenerative
diseases. EGT is being researched for its potential to prevent or slow
conditions like Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson's disease associated with
oxidative brain injury. More research is still needed but EGT appears integral
to maintaining optimal brain function throughout life.
Cardiovascular Benefits
Oxidative modification of LDL cholesterol in the bloodstream is a major
contributor to atherosclerosis and heart disease. EGT benefits heart health by
preventing LDL oxidation more effectively than other antioxidants.
Several population studies link higher EGT intake and status with reduced risk
of cardiovascular disease. EGT may also help regulate blood pressure and
supports healthy endothelial function for optimum blood flow. Ongoing research
indicates EGT assists in preventing atherosclerotic plaque buildup associated
with oxidative stress-related endothelial cell damage and inflammation.
Skin Health Effects
As an accumulated antioxidant in the skin, EGT is well-positioned to fight
external aggressors like UV radiation and airborne pollutants. It helps
maintain skin collagen and elasticity damaged by oxidative stress. Studies
report EGT protects skin cells from sun-induced DNA damage that can lead to
photoaging and skin cancer.
Preliminary evidence also links higher EGT intake with better wound healing
capacity and reduced skin injury. With its photoprotective qualities, EGT could
be a promising ingredient for anti-aging skin products aiming to battle
oxidative skin damage from environmental factors over time. More research is
still warranted but EGT appears to benefit multiple aspects of skin health and
beauty through its antioxidant functions.
Other Benefits and Research Areas
EGT is being widely studied for other benefits based on its antioxidant
properties. Areas undergoing active research include:
- Eye health and prevention of age-related macular degeneration
- Male fertility by protecting sperm against oxidative DNA damage
- Anti-cancer effects by reducing oxidative stress-induced DNA mutations
- Anti-inflammatory capacity useful for arthritis and arthritic conditions
- Athletic performance and recovery through modulation of oxidative stress
- Neuro- and immunomodulatory functions affecting conditions like depression
As a potent yet non-toxic antioxidant, EGT holds great promise for disease
prevention and overall healthspan. While research is ongoing, available
evidence suggests EGT plays an important protective role against oxidative
stress in multiple systems. More studies are needed to better understand the
clinical effects and potential of EGT supplementation. Nevertheless, EGT
appears to be a key nutrient that benefits various aspects of health and
well-being through antioxidant activity.
){kind=link}
0 Comments