So many unanswered questions. If this compound indeed extends lifespan, it may help explain why some individuals live longer.
Gut bacteria convert tryptophan to indolepropionic acid (IPA).
“The gut bacteria that convert tryptophan to indolepropionic acid are Clostridium sporogenes (C. sporogenes).
Indolepropionic acid (IPA) is a precursor to Indolepropionamide (IPAM) in the gut. IPAM is formed through the amidation of IPA, a process carried out by gut bacteria.
Here’s how it works:
IPA Production: Dietary tryptophan is metabolized by gut bacteria like Clostridium sporogenes into Indole and subsequently into IPA.
IPA Amidation: Once IPA is formed, gut bacteria can convert it into IPAM through an amidation reaction, where the carboxyl group (-COOH) of IPA is replaced with an amide group (-CONH2).
In summary: Gut bacteria first produce IPA from tryptophan, and then they can further metabolize IPA into IPAM through an amidation reaction.”
“The pathway for IPA production from tryptophan in C. sporogenes is thought to involve a two-step process:
Tryptophanase (TnaA) first converts tryptophan into indole.
Tryptophan amino transferase (Tam1) then converts indole into IPA.”
C. sporogenes
C. sporogenes is a common gut bacterium."
“It is commonly found in the human gut microbiome, although it might not be present in every individual, or its relative abundance might be lower compared to some other dominant gut bacteria.”
So, how do we increase the amount of C. sporogenes in our gut?
C. sporogenes is known to thrive on amino acids, using a process called the Stickland reaction for energy. Therefore, ensuring adequate intake of dietary protein, which is broken down into amino acids in the gut, may support its growth.
A diet rich in various types of dietary fiber (prebiotics) can promote overall gut health and create an environment conducive to beneficial bacteria, including certain Clostridia.
Sources: Fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes. Specific prebiotics like inulin, fructooligosaccharides (FOS), and xylooligosaccharides (XOS) feed beneficial gut bacteria.
“Proteolytic Clostridia are a group of anaerobic bacteria that have the unique ability to grow with amino acids and peptides as their sole energy source. These microbes colonize the gastrointestinal tract of mammals”
So, maybe some people only need to increase or supplement their tryptophan intake to reap the benefits of Indolepropionamide.
As a subnote: I now think that spore-based probiotics are the best probiotic supplements.
