The Function of the Kynurenine Pathway in the Placenta: A Novel Pharmacotherapeutic Target?

ABSTRACT: (L-)tryptophan is metabolized via the kynurenine pathway into several kynurenine metabolites with distinct functions. Dysfunction of the kynurenine pathway can lead to impairments in vascular regulation, immune regulation, and tolerance. The first and rate limiting enzyme of this pathway, indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase (IDO), is highly expressed in the placenta and reduced in placentas from complicated pregnancies. IDO is essential during pregnancy, as IDO inhibition in pregnant mice resulted in fetal loss. However, the exact function of placental IDO, as well as its exact placental localization, remain controversial. This review identified that two isoforms of IDO; IDO1 and IDO2, are differently expressed between placental cells, suggesting spatial segregation. Furthermore, this review summa

SUBMITTER: Broekhuizen M 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC8582682 | biostudies-literature | 2021 Nov

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature