5-Methyl-DL-tryptophan (CAS 951-55-3)

5-Methyl-DL-tryptophan, an essential amino acid derivative, finds extensive utilization in various scientific research endeavors. Although present in nature in limited amounts, it is synthesized in laboratories for research purposes. As a metabolite of tryptophan, it serves as a precursor for the synthesis of essential compounds like serotonin, melatonin, and kynurenine. Throughout scientific investigations, 5-Methyl-DL-tryptophan has been employed in diverse research applications. It has been instrumental in studying the metabolism of tryptophan and its derivatives like serotonin and melatonin. Additionally, researchers have used it to investigate the biochemical and physiological effects of tryptophan and its related compounds. Notably, 5-Methyl-DL-tryptophan acts as a substrate for the enzyme tryptophan hydroxylase, which catalyzes the synthesis of serotonin and melatonin from tryptophan. Furthermore, it serves as a substrate for the enzyme kynureninase, enabling the synthesis of kynurenine from tryptophan. The compound also demonstrates inhibitory effects on enzymes responsible for the metabolism of tryptophan and its derivatives, such as the enzyme tryptophan 2,3-dioxygenase.