Indolelactic acid (CAS: 1821-52-9) is a tryptophan metabolite found in human plasma, serum, and urine. Tryptophan is metabolized by two major pathways in humans, either through kynurenine or via a series of indoles, and some of its metabolites are known to be biologically active. Indolelactic acid is present in various amounts, significantly higher in umbilical fetal plasma than in maternal plasma in the protein-bound form. Indolelactic acid is also a microbial metabolite; urinary indole-3-lactate is produced by Clostridium sporogenes.Phenylalanine, tyrosine and tryptophan are all metabolized through the reductive pathway by the same enzymes. The first step is an aminotransferase reaction, probably catalysed by aromatic amino acid aminotransferase (Aat). The enzyme involved in indoleacetic acid production remains unknown, however, candidate genes in the genome include pyruvate:ferredoxin oxidoreductases B and C (PorB, CLOSPO_02262; PorC, CLOSPO_03792).

Metabolism and Physiological Effects of Indolelactic Acid References