Influence of the Amino Acid Tryptophan on Multiple Sclerosis
What does tryptophan have to do with MS? Scientists at the Christian-Albrechts University of Kiel, in cooperation with a team from the DKFZ Heidelberg, have investigated the influence of the essential (indispensable) amino acid on the onset and development of multiple sclerosis. It has an effect, particularly through its importance for the intestinal microbiome, as the researchers were able to demonstrate in a mouse model: By using a tryptophan-free diet, the scientists modified the composition of the intestinal bacteria in the rodents - and thus apparently protected them from the symptoms of experimentally induced multiple sclerosis.
Mouse experiment – influence of the amino acid tryptophan on multiple sclerosis.
Relationship between tryptophan, intestinal bacteria and MS
For their experiments, the researchers used a mouse model in which the body's own immune cells attack a specific nerve insulation protein in the central nervous system, thereby triggering symptoms typical of MS. By omitting the amino acid tryptophan from the mice's diet, the researchers say they suppressed a previously unknown immune reaction, so that the animals did not develop any symptoms of MS. The researchers say that the changed composition of the intestinal microbiome has developed a protective effect that prevents the aggressive immune cells from migrating to the spinal cord. How exactly the mechanism works, says Dr. Maren Falk-Paulsen, scientist at the Institute for Clinical Molecular Biology (IKMB) at Kiel University, needs to be investigated in further studies. However, it is clear that omitting tryptophan has an effect on inflammatory reactions in the body. "Based on our results, we hope to find a new target for treating MS in the future," adds Professor Rosenstiel, Director of the IKMB.
Tryptophan is only one possible starting point for future treatments
With their study, the scientists showed once again that diet is an important factor influencing the composition of the intestinal flora and that this in turn determines the development of autoimmune diseases. So is a tryptophan diet a good idea beyond the mouse experiments? You cannot do without the amino acid, especially since it is contained in countless foods. Tryptophan is a protein building block that the body cannot produce itself and therefore has to be ingested through food. When the amino acid is metabolized, messenger substances are produced that are involved in vital processes in the body. For example, it is a precursor to niacin. Niacin contributes to normal energy metabolism and to normal functioning of the nervous system. Tryptophan is also a starting product for the hormones serotonin and melatonin. The former is also known as the happiness hormone and, in addition to the sensation of stress and pain, it is involved in numerous important processes in the body. Melatonin, on the other hand, is important for controlling sleep - and is therefore also indispensable.
