Pure Natural Claviceps Purpurea Ergot Extract Powder 99% Ergosterol CAS 57-87-4

Pure Natural Claviceps Purpurea Ergot Extract Powder 99% Ergosterol CAS 57-87-4
 
Ergosterol is a sterol that serves as the primary structural component of fungal cell membranes, functionally analogous to cholesterol in animal cells. Its most notable feature is that it is a provitamin, meaning it can be converted into Vitamin D2 upon exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light.

Fungal Sterol: Ergosterol is found predominantly in the cell membranes of fungi (like mushrooms and yeast), where it regulates membrane fluidity and integrity.

Dietary Sources: While primarily a fungal sterol, it is also found in certain other organisms and can end up in foods. For example, cocoa beans can contain ergosterol (and subsequently Vitamin D2) due to fungal presence during fermentation and sun-drying.

Antifungal Target: Because ergosterol is essential for fungi but absent in human cells, its biosynthetic pathway is a major target for antifungal drugs (such as azoles) and agricultural fungicides.

 
Ergosterol is the "cholesterol of fungi" and the natural precursor to Vitamin D2. Its presence in mushrooms and yeast makes these foods valuable dietary sources of Vitamin D when exposed to sunlight or UV treatment.