Work

Gut microbiota–mediated tryptophan metabolic dysregulation in the comorbidity of inflammatory bowel disease and autism spectrum disorder: mechanisms and research progress

Year: 2026

Type: review

Abstract: The "microbiota-gut-brain axis" represents a critical link connecting various aspects of intestinal physiology, brain function, and behavioral performance. Among these, tryptophan metabolism abnormalities mediated by gut microbes through the gut-brain axis (GBA) have garnered widespread attention in the study of IBD-ASD comorbidity. This article reviews the current state of research on tryptophan metabolism abnormalities in IBD-ASD comorbidity, with a particular focus on the connection between peripheral and central tryptophan metabolic derangements mediated by gut microbes via the GBA. Furthermore, we summarize and analyze potential therapeutic targets and intervention strategies in this comorbid condition, integrating recent mechanistic studies and clinical evidence to provide a conceptual framework for understanding the potential mechanisms underlying IBD-ASD comorbidity. However, direct evidence from patients with confirmed IBD-ASD comorbidity remains limited at present, and further clinical studies are still needed to test this hypothesis.

Source: Frontiers in Immunology

DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2026.1950055

Authors: Mingyu Lu, Yuxuan Chen, Hengli Zhou, Yingzhuo Lin

Institution: Guangdong Medical College

Language: English

Topic: Gut microbiota and health

Subfield: Molecular Biology

Field: Biochemistry, Genetics and Molecular Biology

Domain: Life Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $3,801