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Abstract
The gut microbiota is a crucial actor in human physiology. Many of these effects are
mediated by metabolites that are either produced by the microbes or derived from the
transformation of environmental or host molecules. Among the array of metabolites
at the interface between these microorganisms and the host is the essential aromatic
amino acid tryptophan (Trp). In the gut, the three major Trp metabolism pathways leading
to serotonin (5-hydroxytryptamine), kynurenine (Kyn), and indole derivatives are under
the direct or indirect control of the microbiota. In this review, we gather the most
recent advances concerning the central role of Trp metabolism in microbiota-host crosstalk
in health and disease. Deciphering the complex equilibrium between these pathways
will facilitate a better understanding of the pathogenesis of human diseases and open
therapeutic opportunities.