Acta Veterinaria et Zootechnica Sinica ›› 2026, Vol. 57 ›› Issue (1): 46-57.doi: 10.11843/j.issn.0366-6964.2026.01.005

• REVIEW • Previous Articles     Next Articles

Research Progress on Tryptophan Metabolites in Alleviating Intestinal Oxidative Stress

MENG Yunlong1,2(), DENG Yuankun1,2, TAN Bi’e1,2, WANG Jing1,2()   

  1. 1.College of Animal Science and Technology,Hunan Agricultural University,Changsha 410128,China
    2.Yuelushan Laboratory,Changsha 410128,China
  • Received:2024-12-24 Online:2026-01-23 Published:2026-01-26
  • Contact: WANG Jing E-mail:15838295579@stu.hunau.edu.cn;jingwang023@hunau.edu.cn

Abstract:

The gastrointestinal tract is not only a place where nutrients digest, absorb and metabolize, but also serves as both a primary source and a major target of reactive oxygen species (ROS). Intestinal health is a cornerstone of animal growth and a critical determinant of livestock production efficiency. Tryptophan, an essential amino acid, is metabolized by both host cells and gut microbiota into various bioactive compounds, such as indole, kynurenine and 5-hydroxytryptamine. These metabolites act as endogenous ligands to regulate intestinal oxidative stress and inflammatory damage. This review summarizes the host and microbial pathways of intestinal tryptophan metabolism, explores the physiological functions of tryptophan metabolites in modulating oxidative stress and tissue repair, and discusses the role of microbial tryptophan metabolism in potential nutritional interventions,including probiotics and nutritional supplements. These findings aim to inform research on nutritional strategies for managing gut health.

Key words: intestine, oxidative stress, tryptophan metabolism, intestinal microorganisms, nutritional regulation

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