Kynurenic acid

Kynurenic acid (KYNA) is a product of the normal metabolism of amino acid tryptophan. It has been found to have neuroactive activity, acting as an antiexcitatory and anticonvulsant, which has led to extensive research into its roles in diseases such as schizophrenia, Alzheimer's disease, and depression.

Chemistry

Kynurenic acid is a small molecule derived from tryptophan, an essential amino acid. It is produced by the enzyme kynurenine aminotransferase (KAT) in a process known as the kynurenine pathway. Kynurenic acid is a weak antagonist of the N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor (NMDAR), and also blocks the alpha-7 nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (α7nAChR) and the glycine site of the NMDAR.

Physiology

In the human body, kynurenic acid is found in the brain, blood, urine, and cerebrospinal fluid. It is one of the few known naturally occurring neuroprotective substances in the brain, and it has been suggested that it may play a role in preventing neurodegenerative diseases.

Clinical significance

Kynurenic acid has been implicated in a number of neurological and psychiatric disorders. Elevated levels of kynurenic acid have been found in the brains of individuals with schizophrenia, suggesting a role in the pathophysiology of the disease. Similarly, decreased levels of kynurenic acid have been associated with Alzheimer's disease and depression.

Research

Research into the role of kynurenic acid in the brain and its potential therapeutic uses is ongoing. Studies have suggested that modulation of kynurenic acid levels could be a novel approach to treating a variety of disorders, including schizophrenia, Alzheimer's disease, and depression.

See also

• Tryptophan
• Kynurenine pathway
• Schizophrenia
• Alzheimer's disease
• Depression

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