Description
L-5-hydroxytryptophan (L-5-HTP) is an endogenous amino acid precursor of 5-HT and melatonin that is commonly found in dietary supplements. L-5-HTP exhibits antidepressant and antioxidative activities. L-5-HTP acts as an antidepressant in clinical settings and shifts circadian rhythms in animal models. This compound also inhibits UV-induced apoptosis in monocytes.
References
Jangid P, Malik P, Singh P, et al. Comparative study of efficacy of l-5-hydroxytryptophan and fluoxetine in patients presenting with first depressive episode. Asian J Psychiatr. 2013 Feb;6(1):29-34. PMID: 23380314.
Basu P, Singaravel M, Haldar C. L-5-hydroxytryptophan resets the circadian locomotor activity rhythm of the nocturnal Indian pygmy field mouse, Mus terricolor. Naturwissenschaften. 2012 Mar;99(3):233-9. PMID: 22331255.
Lysek N, Kinscherf R, Claus R, et al. L-5-Hydroxytryptophan: antioxidant and anti-apoptotic principle of the intertidal sponge Hymeniacidon heliophila. Z Naturforsch C. 2003 Jul-Aug;58(7-8):568-72. PMID: 12939046.