What is L-Ergothioneine?
L-Ergothioneine is a unique thione-based amino acid and potent dietary antioxidant, often referred to as a “longevity vitamin.” Naturally found in mushrooms and certain other foods, it:
- Is actively transported into cells and mitochondria via the
OCTN1/ETT transporter - Very stable and resists auto-oxidation
- Retains in the body longer than typical water-soluble nutrients
Why It Matters for Healthy Aging
Multiple studies show that lower ergothioneine levels are linked to cognitive decline, cardiovascular risk, and other age-related conditions. Supplementation with ErgoActive® ergothioneine restores healthy plasma levels, helping to protect cells, tissues, and organs as we age
Our 2025 peer-reviewed review paper (May-Zhang et al., Antioxidants) provides a comprehensive overview of ergothioneine’s role in human health and longevity, summarizing decades of biochemical, epidemiological, and clinical evidence.
Scientific & Clinical Evidence
Telomere Protection
In vitro studies show that ErgoActive® ergothioneine protects chromosome ends (telomeres) from oxidative stress. Cells treated with ErgoActive® maintained median telomere length and had a lower proportion of critically short telomeres compared to untreated controls.
Cognitive & Sleep Support in a Randomized Placebo-Controlled Clinical Trial
In a 16-week, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial involving 147 healthy older adults with subjective memory complaints, daily ErgoActive® supplementation:
- Improved subjective memory, sleep initiation, reaction time, and composite memory
- Supported telomere length compared to baseline
- Reduced liver enzyme levels (AST and ALT), indicating improved liver function
Observational Studies
Observational studies have consistently linked low ergothioneine intake or plasma levels to risk for age-related conditions. A summary of these studies can be found in our peer-reviewed review published in the Proceedings of Nutritional Science. Examples include:
- Higher mushroom intake (natural source) linked to better cognitive performance in 2,840 adults aged 60+
- Higher plasma ergothioneine linked to better memory & executive function in 470 adults aged 50+
- Low blood levels found in mild cognitive impairment & dementia
- Higher plasma levels linked to longer telomere length
Plasma Level Increases with ErgoActive® Supplementation
Low plasma ergothioneine levels are linked to higher risk of agerelated conditions and mortality. Supplementation with ErgoActive® significantly raises plasma levels, supporting cognitive performance and lowering age-related risk.
Because ergothioneine is transported by a dedicated cellular carrier (OCTN1/ETT), it is highly bioavailable, efficiently absorbed, and retained in cells to combat oxidative stress.
The ErgoActive® Research Program
At Blue California, we believe science is the foundation of every great innovation. That’s why we created the ErgoActive® Research Program for Healthy Aging & Longevity, a collaborative global initiative advancing knowledge on ergothioneine’s role in healthy aging and longevity.
Through collaborations with academic institutions and industry partners, we support research spanning:
- Clinical Trials & Pilot Studies
- Mechanistic Studies
- Animal studies
Our goal is to expand the evidence base for ergothioneine as a next-generation longevity nutrient, ensuring that formulators and consumers alike can trust in both its safety and efficacy.
Discover More About ErgoActive®
ErgoActive® homepage
Explore the essential highlights of our flagship longevity ingredient.
ErgoActive® Research Program for Healthy Aging & Longevity
Learn more about our vision for the future of ergothioneine.
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