Genetic Analysis of Tryptophan Metabolism Genes in Sporadic Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis.

ABSTRACT: The essential amino acid tryptophan (TRP) is the initiating metabolite of the kynurenine pathway (KP), which can be upregulated by inflammatory conditions in cells. Neuroinflammation-triggered activation of the KP and excessive production of the KP metabolite quinolinic acid are common features of multiple neurodegenerative diseases, including amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). In addition to its role in the KP, genes involved in TRP metabolism, including its incorporation into proteins, and synthesis of the neurotransmitter serotonin, have also been genetically and functionally linked to these diseases. ALS is a late onset neurodegenerative disease that is classified as familial or sporadic, depending on the presence or absence of a family history of the disease. Heritability estimates

SUBMITTER: Fifita JA 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC8236844 | biostudies-literature | 2021

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature