Tryptophan‐derived serotonin‐kynurenine balance in immune activation and intestinal inflammation

Endogenous tryptophan metabolism pathways lead to the production of serotonin (5-hydroxytryptamine; 5-HT), kynurenine, and several downstream metabolites which are involved in a multitude of immunological functions in both health and disease states. Ingested tryptophan is largely shunted to the kynurenine pathway (95%) while only minor portions (1%-2%) are sequestered for 5-HT production. Though often associated with the functioning of the …