Core Viewpoint - The controversy surrounding ergothioneine, a compound linked to anti-aging, has intensified following accusations of it being a "fake drug" due to lack of sufficient evidence for its approval as a medicine. Companies like Kelun Pharmaceutical and its subsidiary have defended ergothioneine's classification as a health management tool rather than a drug, citing international studies that support its potential benefits [1][2][4]. Industry Overview - The global market for ergothioneine is projected to exceed $810.4 million by 2027, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 36.17% from 2021 to 2027. The raw material market for ergothioneine is also expected to grow from $6.3 million in 2024 to $16.1 million by 2031 [1]. - Companies such as Huaxi Biological and Chuaning Biological are accelerating their production capabilities through synthetic biology to meet the rising demand for high-purity ergothioneine [2][8]. Product Positioning and Pricing - Ergothioneine is marketed as a dietary supplement rather than a drug, with Kelun's product priced at 1499 yuan for 60 capsules, while competitors like Jinsan Biological offer similar products at 539 yuan. Kelun justifies its pricing based on Japanese market standards and production costs [4][5]. - The compound is recognized as a fifth-generation antioxidant and is used in both topical and oral applications, often combined with other ingredients like hyaluronic acid and collagen peptides [3][6]. Scientific Research and Development - Despite claims of ergothioneine's anti-aging effects, there are gaps in scientific understanding regarding its mechanisms and clinical validation. Research indicates that while ergothioneine shows promise, further studies are needed to explore its effects and applications in medicine [2][8]. - Companies are investing in research to better understand ergothioneine's potential, with Huaxi Biological planning to invest 1.35 million yuan in related projects [7]. Production and Supply Chain - The production of ergothioneine has historically faced challenges due to low yields from natural sources, but advancements in synthetic biology are enabling domestic companies to increase production capacity. For instance, Chuaning Biological plans to establish a facility capable of producing 0.5 tons of ergothioneine annually [6][8]. - The majority of ergothioneine is produced through microbial fermentation or enzyme catalysis, with domestic firms achieving over 99% purity in their products [8].

Industry - The attractiveness of US assets is declining globally due to high foreign exchange hedging costs, leading investors to prefer their own country's bonds for better returns [1] - The US Treasury market is facing challenges from a deteriorating budget outlook and trade tensions, with foreign investors showing caution despite not fearing a default [1] - In the Hong Kong IPO market, 29 companies have listed this year, with 27 through IPOs, raising a total of HKD 77.346 billion, nearing last year's total [2] - Chinese investment banks are becoming dominant players in the Hong Kong IPO scene, with over half of the underwriting firms being Chinese, marking a shift from foreign banks [2] - A total of 171 companies have submitted applications to list on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange, with 145 currently in the hearing process [2] - In the electronics sector, 30 companies are expected to see net profit growth exceeding 50% this year, with significant interest from institutional investors [3] - The North American electronics industry's capital expenditures are expected to exceed forecasts, prompting domestic companies to follow suit [3] Company - Circle, the first stablecoin company, saw its stock surge 122.58% on its first day of trading on the NYSE, closing at USD 83.23, a 168.5% increase [4] - Circle's market capitalization exceeded USD 18 billion on its debut, with trading volume reaching approximately 46 million shares [4] - Controversy surrounds Kelun Pharmaceutical's ergothioneine capsules, with accusations of being a "fake drug" from a prominent academic, leading to a significant stock price increase for the company [5] - Following the death of its founder, Wahaha Group is undergoing a "de-Wahaha" transformation, with over 15 companies in its system ceasing operations and facing quality control issues [6]

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the controversy surrounding the health product ergothioneine, with prominent biologist Rao Yi criticizing its promotion by Kelun Pharmaceutical, while Kelun defends its scientific validity and market positioning [2][3][4][8]. Group 1: Criticism of Ergothioneine - Rao Yi labels ergothioneine as a "fake drug" due to its lack of approval as a medicine, arguing that products without sufficient evidence should not be marketed as effective [4][5][6]. - Rao Yi expresses a general skepticism towards health supplements, stating that most promoted in China are misleading and detrimental to social ethics [11]. - Rao Yi criticizes the marketing tactics of Kelun's chairman, Liu Gexin, who used his physique to promote ergothioneine, suggesting it misleads the public into believing the product can deliver similar results [16][17]. Group 2: Kelun Pharmaceutical's Response - Kelun Pharmaceutical responds to Rao Yi's criticisms by emphasizing the scientific basis and safety of ergothioneine, citing its applications in various health domains such as sleep, cognition, skin aging, and cardiovascular health [7][13]. - The company outlines four key arguments in defense of ergothioneine: scientific validation, global regulatory backing, commitment to preventive medicine, and the promotion of industry standardization [7]. - Kelun highlights that ergothioneine has been recognized as a novel food supplement in developed regions, supported by clinical research published in top-tier journals [7][8].

Core Viewpoint - The controversy surrounding the promotion of ergothioneine by Kelun Pharmaceutical and the criticism from renowned biologist Rao Yi highlights the ongoing debate about the legitimacy and marketing practices of health supplements in the pharmaceutical industry [1][2][3]. Group 1: Criticism of Ergothioneine - Rao Yi labeled ergothioneine as a "fake drug" due to the lack of sufficient evidence for its approval as a legitimate medication, suggesting that it is being marketed as a health supplement to deceive consumers [2][3]. - Rao Yi criticized the marketing tactics employed by Kelun's chairman, Liu Gexin, who showcased his physique in advertisements for ergothioneine, arguing that such methods mislead the public into believing that the supplement can deliver similar results [7][8]. Group 2: Kelun Pharmaceutical's Response - Kelun Pharmaceutical responded to Rao Yi's allegations by emphasizing the scientific basis and safety certifications of ergothioneine, asserting that it has been validated through clinical research in various health domains [4][6]. - The company highlighted that ergothioneine is recognized as a novel dietary supplement in developed regions, countering Rao Yi's claims by stating that the lack of drug approval does not invalidate the efficacy of dietary supplements [4][6]. Group 3: Broader Implications for the Industry - The exchange between Rao Yi and Kelun Pharmaceutical reflects a larger issue within the health supplement industry, where the distinction between legitimate products and those lacking scientific backing is often blurred [3][6]. - Rao Yi's history of criticizing other pharmaceutical products indicates a pattern of scrutiny towards the marketing practices of health supplements, raising questions about consumer protection and regulatory standards in the industry [4][6].

Core Viewpoint - The controversy surrounding Kelun Pharmaceutical's product, Ergothioneine capsules, has intensified following public criticism from renowned biologist Rao Yi, who labeled the product as a "fake drug" due to its lack of regulatory approval [1][2]. Group 1: Product Controversy - Rao Yi's article questioned the legitimacy of Ergothioneine capsules, suggesting that if the product had genuine health benefits, it would have received regulatory approval [1]. - Kelun Pharmaceutical responded by asserting that Ergothioneine is classified as a dietary supplement and not a drug, thus challenging the notion of it being a "fake drug" [1][2]. Group 2: Regulatory Status - Ergothioneine has been recognized as a novel food supplement in developed countries, with the FDA granting it GRAS (Generally Recognized as Safe) status and the European Food Safety Authority approving it as a new food supplement [2]. - Kelun Pharmaceutical's application for Ergothioneine as a new food ingredient was accepted by the National Health Commission in 2024, although it is still under review [2]. Group 3: Company Stance - In response to accusations of misleading marketing, Kelun Pharmaceutical welcomed scrutiny from academia, regulatory bodies, and consumers, urging an objective evaluation of emerging technologies [2].

6月5日，知名生物学家、前首都医科大学校长、现任北京大学校务委员会副主任、理学部主任饶毅在其 公众号上发布《假药靠肌肉男真人"赤膊上阵"，真药伟哥仅以小小"老鼠作证"》一文，直指科伦药业旗 下的麦角硫因胶囊为"假药"，引发了舆论的广泛关注。 饶毅在文中指出，"如果药物确实能够对动物或人有延年益寿的作用，早就会有人提供足够证据获得药 监部门批准。因为缺乏证据，得不到批准，销售商才走保健品的路子。"在他看来，凡是没有足够令人 信服的证据，不能获得批准成为真药，是假药的，只好以保健品方式蒙人、骗人，麦角硫因就是"假 药"。 对此，科伦药业于6月6日上午通过"科伦永年大健康"公众号发布，声明强调三点立场：公司从未将麦角 硫因作为药物宣传，其定位是"功能性健康产品"；产品基于科学理论和品牌影响力，在海外有明确科研 论文和临床论证支持；指责饶毅文章存在"偷换概念"问题。 此前，科伦药业董事长刘革新大秀肌肉，为公司新产品麦角硫因胶囊代言，麦角硫因也因此进入大众视 野。 公开资料显示，麦角硫因是一种天然抗氧化剂，在人体内可以对细胞起到保护作用，它具有清除自由 基、解毒、维持DNA的生物合成、细胞的正常生长及细胞免疫等多种生理 ...

Core Viewpoint - The controversy surrounding the product Ergothioneine from Kolun Pharmaceutical is primarily focused on its classification as a dietary supplement rather than a drug, which has led to accusations of it being a "fake drug" by a prominent biologist [1][2]. Group 1: Product Classification and Controversy - Kolun Pharmaceutical asserts that Ergothioneine is recognized internationally as a dietary supplement and not a drug, countering claims of it being a "fake drug" [1]. - The core of the dispute revolves around the product's qualifications, with Kolun responding to criticisms regarding the lack of drug approval by citing studies published in the high-impact journal "Cell Metabolism" that support its health benefits [1]. Group 2: Safety and Regulatory Status - Ergothioneine has been classified as a new type of food supplement or functional health food ingredient in developed countries, receiving GRAS certification from the FDA and approval from the European Food Safety Authority [2]. - Kolun Pharmaceutical has submitted an application for Ergothioneine as a new food ingredient to the National Health Commission, which is currently under review [2]. - The company welcomes scrutiny from the academic community, regulatory bodies, and consumers regarding its research and products, advocating for an objective perspective on emerging technologies [2].

Core Viewpoint - The core controversy revolves around whether the product Ergotioneine capsules from Kelun Pharmaceutical is a dietary supplement or a "fake drug" as claimed by Peking University’s Rao Yi [1][4]. Group 1: Company Position - Kelun Pharmaceutical asserts that Ergotioneine is recognized internationally as a dietary supplement and not a drug, thus challenging the notion of it being labeled as a "fake drug" [1][4]. - The company emphasizes that the value and safety of Ergotioneine have been scientifically validated through various studies, including those published in top journals [2][3]. - Kelun Pharmaceutical calls for an objective industry perspective on emerging technologies to shift the nutrition and health industry from a marketing-driven approach to a science-driven one [1][6]. Group 2: Scientific Evidence - The company cites two studies published in "Cell Metabolism" demonstrating that Ergotioneine can significantly extend the lifespan of model organisms and improve their physical performance [2]. - Additional clinical research indicates that Ergotioneine may help reduce sleep difficulties, improve cognitive functions in patients with mild cognitive impairment, decrease skin wrinkles, and lower the risk of coronary artery disease [3]. - The safety of Ergotioneine has been established in toxicity tests and randomized controlled trials, with its acceptance as a new food supplement in developed countries [3]. Group 3: Market Performance - Despite the controversy, Kelun Pharmaceutical's Ergotioneine products continue to be sold, with prices ranging from 1,199 yuan to 4,476 yuan, and sales exceeding 18.83 million yuan as of June 5 [5].

Group 1: Tesla and Elon Musk - Trump expressed disappointment in Musk, indicating a potential rift in their relationship, which could impact Tesla's market perception [2][20] - Following Trump's comments, Tesla's stock plummeted, resulting in a market value loss of approximately $100 billion, with a 14.26% drop in share price [20][21] Group 2: Pharmaceutical Industry - Controversy arose around the drug Ergotamine, with a prominent figure claiming it is a "fake drug," leading to public scrutiny of its efficacy and the marketing practices of Kolun Pharmaceutical [7] - Kolun Pharmaceutical defended its product, stating positive feedback from users, despite the ongoing debate regarding regulatory compliance [7] Group 3: Consumer Goods - The "1.5 bucket" product from Jinmailang faced criticism for misleading marketing, as the actual weight did not meet the advertised quantity, raising concerns about consumer trust [8][10] - The controversy follows a similar issue with another brand, indicating a trend of scrutiny in the instant noodle market regarding product labeling and consumer perception [8][10] Group 4: Technology Partnerships - Xiaopeng Motors and Huawei announced a collaboration on AR-HUD technology, which is expected to enhance the automotive experience and benefit related supply chain companies [23] - This partnership marks a significant step in the integration of advanced technology in vehicles, potentially influencing market dynamics in the automotive sector [23] Group 5: Apple and Tata Group - Apple has transferred its iPhone and MacBook repair services in India to Tata Group, indicating a strategic move to strengthen its operational capabilities in the region [22] - This transition reflects Apple's ongoing commitment to expanding its presence in the Indian market, despite previous pressures from political figures [22] Group 6: Aviation Industry - Airbus is reportedly in discussions with Chinese airlines for a potential order of up to 500 aircraft, which could significantly impact the aviation market and Airbus's sales figures [26] - The negotiations highlight China's growing demand for new aircraft as it continues to modernize its aviation fleet [26] Group 7: Defense Industry - Indonesia is evaluating the procurement of Chinese-made J-10 fighter jets, focusing on performance and cost-effectiveness, which could reshape regional defense dynamics [26] - This consideration reflects Indonesia's ongoing military modernization efforts and its search for high-value defense equipment [26]

Core Viewpoint - The controversy surrounding Kelun Pharmaceutical and its chairman Liu Gexin has intensified due to allegations regarding the efficacy and regulatory status of its anti-aging product, Ergothioneine, which has not received official certification as a health product in China [1][2][4]. Financial Performance - In Q1 2025, Kelun Pharmaceutical reported a significant revenue decline of 29% year-on-year, totaling 4.39 billion yuan, while net profit plummeted by 43% to 584 million yuan, marking the worst quarterly performance in five years [5][6]. - The company's traditional infusion business revenue fell below 9 billion yuan, a record low, contributing to the overall financial downturn [5][6]. - The cash flow from operating activities also dropped over 60%, reaching 450 million yuan, indicating severe operational challenges [5]. Product Controversy - Ergothioneine, marketed as an anti-aging supplement, lacks regulatory approval and has not been substantiated by scientific evidence for its claimed benefits, raising compliance and ethical concerns [2][3][4]. - The product is being sold through cross-border e-commerce channels, exploiting regulatory differences between domestic and international markets [3][4]. Business Strategy and Challenges - The chairman has positioned the anti-aging sector as the "fourth entrepreneurial venture" for the company, following its traditional infusion and antibiotic businesses, aiming to create an ecosystem around anti-aging products [6][7]. - The subsidiary, Chuaning Biological, which was expected to drive growth through synthetic biology, has seen its revenue contribution remain minimal, indicating slow progress in its transformation strategy [7]. Market Environment - The pharmaceutical industry is facing significant challenges due to stringent government policies, such as the "limit on antibiotics" directive, which has adversely affected the infusion market and overall demand [6][7]. - Despite the decline in traditional business, non-infusion segments (generic and innovative drugs) showed some growth, but this was insufficient to offset the losses from the core infusion business [6].