薬理と治療

Abstract

Objective　Ergothioneine is a hydrophilic amino acid that is abundantly contained in mushrooms, and reported to have an antioxidant effect, a neurogenic effect, and a memory improvement effect. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the effect of ergothioneine on stress in humans. Methods　We conducted a randomized, placebo–controlled, double–blind, parallel–group study for 52 healthy individuals who experience stress on a daily basis and feel physical discomfort( not chronic or disease–related), such as sleep quality and fatigue(27 men and 25 women). Subjects consumed either a drink containing 5 mg ergothioneine as the test food(provided by LS Corporation Co., Ltd.)or a drink not containing ergothioneine as the placebo. Stress responses after mental load and during daily life were evaluated before, 4 and 8 weeks after consumption of the test food. Results　The stress effects of ergothioneine ingestion after mental load were significantly improved compared to placebo in POMS2(anger–hostility, friendship)after 8 weeks and in POMS2(vitality–energy)after 4 weeks. In addition, ergothioneine intake significantly improved OSA–MA(Sleepiness on rising)at week 4 as an anti–stress effect during daily life compared to the placebo group. No adverse events attributable to the test food were observed in any subjects during the study. Conclusion　These results indicate that continuous intake of ergothioneine has an anti–stress effect on stressed healthy subjects.(UMIN000049989)(Jpn Pharmacol Ther 2024;52:1319‒35)