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5-HTP (5-Hydroxytryptophan) is a naturally occurring amino acid and chemical precursor in the biosynthesis of serotonin(5-HT).
-Serotonin (from 5-HTP) is further converted into melatonin in the pineal gland, regulating sleep-wake cycles
- 5-HTP freely crosses the blood–brain barrier.
-Serotonin Does not cross the blood-brain barrier well if excessively converted in the periphery, which is why it's often taken with carbidopa (a peripheral decarboxylase inhibitor) in clinical contexts.
-Doses over ~300–400 mg/day should be taken cautiously and under supervision.
-Alzheimer’s Disease (AD) patients show marked reductions in serotonin levels and serotonergic neurons, especially in the raphe nuclei and hippocampus. 5-HTP could help restore serotonin levels in the brain, potentially supporting cognition and mood.
-5-HTP may help reduce microglial activation and inflammatory cytokines (e.g. TNF-α, IL-6), both elevated in AD.
-Serotonin and melatonin (a downstream product of 5-HTP) have antioxidant properties, which might help reduce ROS-induced neuronal damage in AD.
-Many AD patients are on SSRIs or cholinesterase inhibitors, which could interact with 5-HTP.