Relation of the kynurenine pathway with normal age: A systematic review

Background

The kynurenine pathway (KP) is gaining more attention as a common pathway involved in age-related conditions. However, which changes in the KP occur due to normal ageing is still largely unclear. The aim of this systematic review was to summarize the available evidence for associations of KP metabolites with age.

Methods

We used an broad search strategy and included studies up to October 2023.

Results

Out of 8795 hits, 55 studies were eligible for the systematic review. These studies suggest that blood levels of tryptophan decrease with age, while blood and cerebrospinal fluid levels of kynurenine and its ratio with tryptophan increase. Studies investigating associations between cerebrospinal fluid and blood levels of kynurenic acid and quinolinic acid with age reported either positive or non-significant findings. However, there is a large heterogeneity across studies. Additionally, most studies were cross-sectional, and only few studies investigated associations with other downstream kynurenines.

Conclusions

This systematic review suggests that levels of kynurenines are positively associated with age. Larger and prospective studies are needed that also investigate a more comprehensive panel of KP metabolites and changes during the life-course.