Effects of ergothioneine on oxidative DNA damage and immune response induced by circadian rhythm disturbance in mice

Abstract

Ergothioneine has antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and cell-protective properties. Circadian rhythm disruption can lead to health issues, such as insomnia, mental illness, chronic diseases, and cancer. However, the impact of ergothioneine, as an anti­oxidant, on oxidative DNA damage and immune variations caused by circadian rhythm disruptions remains unclear. To investigate the effect of ergothioneine on oxidative DNA damage and immune responses caused by circadian rhythm disruption, 8-week-old mice were subjected to night time feeding and exercise restrictions for 14 days. Body weight, daytime running wheel activity, and anxiety-like behavior showed no significant differences between the night-restricted groups, regardless of ergothioneine administration. Serum interleukin-6 levels, 8-hydroxy-2'-deoxyguanosine levels in urine and nuclear DNA of the liver, testes, lungs, and pancreas were significantly reduced in the night-restricted group receiving ergothioneine compared with that of the group without ergothioneine, with no significant differences observed when compared to the control group. Ergothioneine can mitigate immune function changes and oxidative DNA damage induced by circadian rhythm disruption caused by abnormal dietary timing in mice. However, it did not alleviate obesity or mental state dysregulation. These findings have important implications for improving night-shift workers health and developing therapies for diseases associated with circadian rhythm disturbances.