Ergothioneine for Chronic Renal Failure

This trial explores whether a daily supplement of ergothioneine can improve blood levels in people with kidney failure undergoing dialysis. Dialysis often removes beneficial chemicals along with harmful ones, and patients typically have low levels of ergothioneine, which is usually obtained through diet. The trial aims to determine if ergothioneine supplementation can replenish its blood levels. Researchers seek participants with kidney failure who are currently receiving either hemodialysis or peritoneal dialysis. As an unphased trial, this study offers a unique opportunity to contribute to understanding the potential benefits of ergothioneine supplementation for dialysis patients.

The trial information does not specify if you need to stop your current medications. However, you cannot take supplements that contain ergothioneine.

Research has shown that ergothioneine is generally safe. The FDA has approved it for use in food, indicating it is unlikely to cause harm when consumed in normal amounts. This approval relies on existing safety data and its use in foods.

Most treatments for chronic renal failure focus on managing symptoms or slowing disease progression through diet, medication, or dialysis. But Ergothioneine, a naturally occurring amino acid derivative, offers a fresh approach. Unlike standard therapies, Ergothioneine is known for its antioxidant properties, potentially reducing oxidative stress that damages kidney cells. Researchers are excited because it could protect kidneys at a molecular level, offering a new way to improve outcomes in chronic renal failure.

Research has shown that ergothioneine, a strong antioxidant, is often low in people on dialysis. One study found that dialysis patients had significantly less of this antioxidant in their blood. In another study, ergothioneine protected kidney function in mice with kidney problems. Additionally, taking about 8 mg of ergothioneine daily effectively raised blood levels in people. This trial will investigate the effects of ergothioneine, administered in doses ranging from 5 mg to 25 mg daily for up to 16 weeks, to assess its potential in replacing important nutrients lost during dialysis.¹²⁴⁶⁷