TRYPTOPHAN: A KEY METABOLITE OF HOMEOSTASIS AND A REGULATOR OF BODY FUNCTIONS

Abstract

Background. Tryptophan is an essential amino acid found mainly in protein foods and its availability is highly dependent on a diet. A significant part of tryptophan is metabolized in the gastrointestinal tract by the intestinal microbiota, producing a number of biologically active molecules, including aryl hydrocarbon receptor ligands, kynurenines, and serotonin (5-hydroxytryptamine). Objective. To analyze scientific studies confirming the key role of tryptophan microbial catabolites on the function of a macroorganism. Material and methods. The analysis of 47 English-language literature sources containing information on the effects of tryptophan metabolites on the mammalian organism was carried out. Results. It has been established that tryptophan metabolism plays a central role both in a normal macroorganism and in pathological conditions, it being directly or indirectly controlled by the intestinal microbiota. Conclusions. Thus, tryptophan metabolism is an important therapeutic target, underutilized in the treatment of a number of chronic neurological pathologies and immunocompetent conditions. An important factor is the use of nutraceuticals and probiotics by microorganisms that modulate the metabolism of tryptophan in the intestine and stimulate the synthesis of specific metabolites.