5-HTP 5-Hydroxytryptophan
Description: <b>5-HTP</b> (5-Hydroxytryptophan) is a naturally occurring amino acid and chemical precursor in the biosynthesis of serotonin(5-HT).<br>
-Serotonin (from 5-HTP) is further converted into melatonin in the pineal gland, regulating sleep-wake cycles<br>
- 5-HTP freely crosses the blood–brain barrier.<br>
-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.<br>
-Doses over ~300–400 mg/day should be taken cautiously and under supervision.<br>
-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.<br>
-5-HTP may help reduce microglial activation and inflammatory cytokines (e.g. TNF-α, IL-6), both elevated in AD.<br>
-Serotonin and melatonin (a downstream product of 5-HTP) have antioxidant properties, which might help reduce ROS-induced neuronal damage in AD.<br>
-Many AD patients are on SSRIs or cholinesterase inhibitors, which could interact with 5-HTP.<br>
<br>