Exercise modulates tryptophan metabolism and supports healthy aging

Various metabolites and neurotransmitters like kynurenine (KYN), serotonin and indole etc derived from tryptophan metabolism, play crucial role in cellular processes and dysregulation in these metabolic processes may lead to age-related chronic conditions, including cancer, cardiovascular disease, sarcopenia, and neurodegenerative disorders.

Exercise emerges as a potent modulator of these pathways, redirecting tryptophan utilization to limit the accumulation of KYN metabolites while maintaining balanced indole and serotonin production.

 By regulating indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase 1 (IDO1) activity and KYN flux, exercise alleviates inflammation, restores metabolic homeostasis, improved muscle integrity, neuroprotection, and overall systemic health.

The authors in this review discuss the  current advances in understanding the regulation of tryptophan metabolism (KYN, Serotonin and Indole) and evaluate the role of exercise to remodel these pathways, thus providing an opportunity to intervene aging related diseases.

https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0300908425002676

https://sciencemission.com/Exercise-driven-changes-in-tryptophan-metabolism