L-tryptophan is an essential amino acid for human nutrition. L-tryptophan is used in the important biosynthetic pathway for the creation of the neurotransmitter serotonin. L-tryptophan concentration in blood have been observed to fall during the periods where the immune system is activated because certain immune cells possess tryptophan metabolising enzymes that increase their requirement for tryptophan during infection. If the tryptophan concentrations are not sufficient to maintain the immune system during infection, immunity can be compromised. Some evidence suggests that during periods of immune activation when blood level of tryptophan are reduced, serotonin synthesis may be affected, and this can be a cause of depression and low mood. Chronic activation of the immune system, that may stem from the inflammation caused by poor quality Western diets and lifestyle, may therefore contribute to the development of mood disorders such as depression through reductions in circulating tryptophan.
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