Clinical Study: L-Ergothioneine Shown to Support Liver Function and Cellular Health

A recent human clinical study conducted from 2024 to 2025 evaluated the effects of daily L-Ergothioneine (EGT) supplementation on liver health and overall well-being.The open-label, self-controlled trial involved 30 adult participants who consumed 60 mg of EGT capsules daily for 30 days. Researchers measured key biomarkers of liver function — including ALT, AST, and GGT — to assess improvements in enzyme activity and metabolic balance.

Why the Liver Matters

The liver is the body’s detoxification powerhouse — filtering toxins, metabolizing nutrients, and regulating hormones. Modern lifestyles, stress, alcohol, and poor diet can all overwork this vital organ, leading to elevated liver enzymes and fatigue.

Antioxidants such as L-Ergothioneine have drawn attention for their potential to protect and restore liver function by reducing oxidative stress at the cellular level.

About L-Ergothioneine

L-Ergothioneine is a naturally occurring amino acid derivative found in mushrooms, beans, and certain animal tissues. It is often called the “longevity molecule” because of its unique ability to accumulate in mitochondria and protect cells from oxidative damage.

Unlike standard antioxidants that act broadly, EGT is transported into cells via a dedicated transporter (OCTN1) — meaning the body actively conserves and utilizes it where it’s needed most.

Study Design

  • Type: Open-label, self-controlled clinical study
  • Participants: 30 adults (both male and female)
  • Duration: 30 days
  • Dosage: 60 mg L-Ergothioneine capsule per day
  • Primary Endpoints: Serum ALT, AST, and GGT levels
  • Secondary Observations: Fatigue level, sleep quality, overall well-being
  • Location: Qingdao Central Hospital, China

Key Findings

After 30 days of supplementation, researchers observed statistically significant improvements across several liver biomarkers:

  • AST (Aspartate Aminotransferase): Decreased by 19.6% (p = 0.0082), indicating reduced cellular stress.
  • ALT (Alanine Aminotransferase): Decreased by 21.3% (p = 0.0025), showing improved liver enzyme regulation.
  • GGT (Gamma-Glutamyl Transferase): Decreased by 18.2% (p = 0.0270), suggesting a lower oxidative load.

Participants also reported:

  • Noticeably higher daytime energy
  • Improved sleep quality
  • No adverse reactions throughout the study period

These findings suggest that L-Ergothioneine may help maintain healthy liver function and enhance recovery from metabolic or environmental stressors.

Safety Profile

No participants experienced negative side effects, confirming the excellent safety and tolerability of L-Ergothioneine at the tested dosage.

Routine bloodwork and physical evaluations remained within normal limits throughout the 30-day trial.

Conclusion

This study adds to the growing body of evidence supporting the protective and restorative potential of L-Ergothioneine.

By improving key markers of liver health, EGT demonstrates its role as a next-generation antioxidant capable of supporting detoxification, energy metabolism, and long-term cellular resilience.

While larger, placebo-controlled trials are still needed, these findings highlight L-Ergothioneine’s promise as a safe, effective supplement for individuals seeking liver support and better overall vitality.

Qingdao Central Hospital. “Clinical Study on the Efficacy and Safety of L-Ergothioneine Capsules in Improving Liver Function.” 2024–2025. Sponsored by GeneIII Biotechnology Co., Ltd.