3-Hydroxykynurenine

3-Hydroxykynurenine (3-OH-kynurenine) is a metabolite in the kynurenine pathway, which is involved in the metabolism of the amino acid tryptophan. It is an intermediate product formed during the conversion of tryptophan to other compounds, including the essential coenzyme NAD+ (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide).

3-Hydroxykynurenine

Who would benefit from testing their 3-Hydroxykynurenine levels?

Testing 3-Hydroxykynurenine levels can be beneficial for individuals at risk or suffering from conditions where oxidative stress is a significant factor. This includes neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s, certain psychiatric disorders, and possibly some autoimmune and inflammatory conditions.

What are symptoms of dysregulated 3-Hydroxykynurenine levels?

Dysregulated 3-Hydroxykynurenine levels, particularly elevated levels, can contribute to oxidative stress and cellular damage.

Symptoms and signs might include:

  1. Neurological Symptoms: Such as cognitive decline, memory issues, or motor coordination problems, often seen in neurodegenerative diseases.
  2. Psychiatric Symptoms: Mood disturbances, anxiety, or symptoms associated with psychiatric disorders.
  3. Oxidative Stress Indicators: General signs of oxidative stress, like fatigue, muscle weakness, or susceptibility to infections.

What factors impact 3-Hydroxykynurenine levels?

Several factors can impact 3-Hydroxykynurenine levels:

  1. Genetic Factors: Genetic variations can influence the enzymes involved in its synthesis.
  2. Diet and Nutrition: Dietary intake of tryptophan, the precursor to 3-Hydroxykynurenine, plays a role.
  3. Inflammation and Immune Response: Inflammatory processes can alter the kynurenine pathway.
  4. Oxidative Stress: Conditions that increase oxidative stress can affect its production and degradation.
  5. Disease States: Neurodegenerative diseases, psychiatric disorders, and other health conditions can impact its levels.
  6. Environmental Factors: Exposure to toxins or other environmental stressors might influence its metabolism.

How do you regulate your 3-Hydroxykynurenine levels?

Regulating 3-Hydroxykynurenine levels involves a combination of lifestyle, dietary, and sometimes medical interventions:

  1. Balanced Diet: Ensure adequate intake of nutrients, particularly those that support the tryptophan-kynurenine pathway.
  2. Manage Stress: Chronic stress can impact the pathway, so stress-reduction techniques can be beneficial.
  3. Regular Exercise: Physical activity can help in maintaining a healthy metabolic balance.
  4. Avoid Toxins: Minimize exposure to environmental toxins that could disrupt metabolic pathways.
  5. Monitor Health Conditions: Proper management of conditions like inflammation or immune disorders can help.

Test(s) that measure/test for 3-Hydroxykynurenine

Trusted by over 10.000+ customers

gettested trustpilot
call to action
call to action line graphic

Still not sure what you need?

Let our experienced team of nutritionists, medical experts, health coaches guide you.