Analysis of Tryptophan Metabolites

Tryptophan derivatives play a number of physiological and pathophysiological functions. The intestine is a critical site of tryptophan metabolism, where host and microbial pathways convert dietary tryptophan into a number of compounds. Upon entering the bloodstream, these compounds arrive at the liver, where they may undergo further metabolic transformation before traveling to distant sites in the body.

Blood serum and plasma are rich in tryptophan and its metabolites. Measurements of these compounds can provide insights into host physiology, biomarkers of disease, and the function of intestinal microbiota. Tandem mass spectrometry (MS/MS), combined with high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) is a powerful tool for studying collections of tryptophan metabolites.