Background Both host and microbe metabolism of tryptophan (Trp) is altered in diabetes; however, the molecular mechanisms are incompletely understood. Objective We used strategies to increase either angiotensin converting enzyme-2 (ACE-2) dependent or independent Trp absorption in a model of type 2 diabetes, db/db mice, and tested whether the strategies could prevent development of diabetic retinopathy (DR), the most common microvascular complication of diabetes.
Additionally, we investigated levels of Trp metabolites in humans with and without DR. Design Enhanced ACE-2 dependent Trp absorption was achieved with gavage of genetically modified bacteria that preserved intestinal ACE2:sodium coupled neutral amino acid transporter expression.
ACE-2 independent Trp absorption was achieved by gavage of the Trp dipeptide (Isoleucine-Trp; IW) absorbed via solute carrier family 15 member 1. Both strategies were used either as a prevention (6 months treatment) or intervention (3 months treatment) and at the conclusion, intestinal, metabolic and retinal studies were performed including spatial mass spectroscopy (MS).
Plasma Trp metabolites and gut permeability markers were measured in individuals with T2D with (n=30) and without (n=40) DR and compared with healthy controls (n=35).
Gut (BMJ) published a clinical update in Research Highlights on 07 Apr 2026.
The item focuses on Indole-3-propionic acid links gut dysfunction to diabetic retinopathy: a biomarker and novel therapeutic approach.
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