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Dual Role of Indoles Derived From Intestinal Microbiota on Human Health
Xuewei Ye1,2, Haiyi Li2, Komal Anjum3
1State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Disease, Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China.
Frontiers in Immunology
|July 5, 2022
Summary
Indoles, tryptophan metabolites from gut bacteria, offer health benefits by reducing inflammation but also pose toxicity risks. Understanding their dual role is key for future research and therapeutic applications.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Pharmacology
- Human Health
Background:
- Indoles are tryptophan metabolites produced by intestinal microbiota.
- They play a role in maintaining intestinal barrier function and immune modulation.
- Indoles exhibit diverse biological activities, impacting various human health aspects.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the dual role of indoles in human health.
- To explore the interaction between indoles and intestinal microbiota.
- To highlight the therapeutic potential and toxic effects of indoles.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies on indoles, intestinal microbiota, and human health.
- Analysis of mechanisms of action, including receptor activation (AhR, PXR).
- Examination of disease correlations and toxicological profiles.
Main Results:
- Indoles possess anti-inflammatory properties via AhR and PXR activation.
- They are linked to improved intestinal health (IBD, colorectal cancer) and other conditions (diabetes, CNS inflammation).
- Certain indole derivatives, like indoxyl sulfate, exhibit significant nephrotoxicity and cardiovascular toxicity.
Conclusions:
- Indoles act as double-edged swords, offering health benefits and posing toxic risks.
- Further research is needed to elucidate indole-microbiota interactions and optimize their therapeutic use.
- Understanding these complex interactions is crucial for developing targeted health strategies.
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