Maternal Tryptophan Supplementation Alters Offspring Gut-Brain Axis and Behavior in a Sex-Specific Manner

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Microbiology
• Nutritional Science
• Developmental Biology

Background:

• Maternal diet critically influences offspring neurodevelopment via the gut-brain axis.
• Tryptophan, a serotonin precursor, is vital for neurodevelopment and immune function.
• Sex-specific vulnerabilities to neuropsychiatric disorders are linked to gut-brain interactions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the effects of maternal tryptophan supplementation on offspring gut microbiota, metabolism, neurochemistry, and behavior.
• To determine if these effects are sex-specific in healthy offspring.

Main Methods:

• Analyzed microbial composition and metabolic activity in offspring.
• Measured brain and plasma levels of tryptophan and serotonin.
• Assessed behavioral outcomes in male and female mouse offspring.

Main Results:

• Maternal tryptophan supplementation induced sex-specific changes in offspring.
• Female offspring showed disrupted microbiota, reduced brain tryptophan/serotonin, and increased anxiety.
• Male offspring exhibited increased metabolic activity, elevated brain tryptophan, and repetitive behaviors.

Conclusions:

• Maternal tryptophan supplementation modulates gut-brain axis components, influencing offspring neurodevelopment and behavior in a sex-dependent manner.
• Findings emphasize the importance of prenatal nutrition and suggest potential sex-specific preventive strategies for neurodevelopmental health.
• Further research into targeted dietary interventions is warranted to support healthy neurodevelopment and long-term mental health outcomes.