l-tryptophan

L-tryptophan is an essential α-amino acid required for the biosynthesis of proteins. It cannot be synthesized by the human body and must be obtained from dietary sources such as meat, eggs, dairy, and certain seeds. After ingestion, L-tryptophan is metabolized into several bioactive compounds including serotonin (a neurotransmitter involved in mood regulation), melatonin (a hormone regulating sleep-wake cycles), kynurenine, and niacin (vitamin B3). Its primary mechanism involves serving as a precursor to serotonin via conversion first to 5-hydroxytryptophan (5‑HTP). L‑tryptophan has been used as a dietary supplement for conditions like depression, insomnia, premenstrual dysphoric disorder, and smoking cessation; however, robust clinical evidence supporting these uses is limited. Most commercial L‑tryptophan is produced by microbial fermentation[1][2][3][4][5][6].

Brand names

TryptanAminomine

Other names

tryptophan色氨酸TrpW