Advances and prospects of ergothioneine in the treatment of cognitive frailty.

Background: To review the biological functions of ergothioneine (ERGO), its correlation with plasma levels in cognitive frailty, and research progress in treating frailty and cognitive impairment, with the aim of providing a reference for ERGO application in cognitive frailty treatment.

Methods: A comprehensive review of existing literature on ERGO's chemical structure, sources, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, and its role in cognitive frailty was conducted. Clinical trial data and metabolomic studies were also analyzed to understand ERGO's therapeutic potential.

Results: ERGO, a naturally occurring antioxidant, exhibits strong antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and immunomodulatory activities. Age-related declines in plasma ERGO levels are observed, particularly in individuals with cognitive impairment. Metabolomic analyses confirm ERGO's beneficial effects on cognition and memory. Preclinical studies demonstrate ERGO's capacity to enhance cognitive function and neuronal health through oxidative stress reduction and neuroprotection.

Conclusion: Preclinical studies have underscored ERGO's potent antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and neuroprotective effects, suggesting its potential as a therapeutic agent for cognitive frailty. However, the translation of these findings into clinical benefits necessitates validation through well-designed clinical trials. While existing evidence is promising, suggesting ERGO as a viable complementary intervention, comprehensive and rigorous studies are imperative to establish its clinical efficacy and safety in managing cognitive frailty.