Essential Amino Acid Metabolites as Chemical Mediators of Host-Microbe Interaction in the Gut

Annu Rev Microbiol. 2023 Sep 15:77:479-497. doi: 10.1146/annurev-micro-032421-111819. Epub 2023 Jun 20.

Abstract

Amino acids are indispensable substrates for protein synthesis in all organisms and incorporated into diverse aspects of metabolic physiology and signaling. However, animals lack the ability to synthesize several of them and must acquire these essential amino acids from their diet or perhaps their associated microbial communities. The essential amino acids therefore occupy a unique position in the health of animals and their relationships with microbes. Here we review recent work connecting microbial production and metabolism of essential amino acids to host biology, and the reciprocal impacts of host metabolism of essential amino acids on their associated microbes. We focus on the roles of the branched-chain amino acids (valine, leucine, and isoleucine) and tryptophan on host-microbe communication in the intestine of humans and other vertebrates. We then conclude by highlighting research questions surrounding the less-understood aspects of microbial essential amino acid synthesis in animal hosts.

Keywords: isoleucine; leucine; microbiome; serotonin; tryptophan; valine.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Amino Acids, Branched-Chain / metabolism
  • Amino Acids, Essential*
  • Animals
  • Host Microbial Interactions*
  • Humans
  • Isoleucine
  • Leucine

Substances

  • Amino Acids, Essential
  • Amino Acids, Branched-Chain
  • Leucine
  • Isoleucine