Tryptophan is an essential amino acid provided by dietary protein intake. Among the 20 amino acids that make up protein, tryptophan occupies the smallest proportion in protein and cytoplasm. Although the content of tryptophan in the body is relatively low, it is involved in many physiological functions. In addition to composing proteins in the human body, tryptophan is also a precursor for the synthesis of serotonin and niacin. Because of its low content, it increases the possibility of a dynamic imbalance of tryptophan. In this way, tryptophan functions differently in different metabolic pathways depending on its physiological and pathological states.
L-tryptophan is an amino acid necessary for the maintenance, activation and proliferation of cells in mammals. It is the only amino acid that binds to serum albumin through non-covalent bonds in animals, and is widely involved in protein synthesis and nucleic acid synthesis. Tryptophan has the functions of promoting protein synthesis, regulating gene expression, improving appetite, relieving stress and promoting growth.
L-tryptophan is one of the three major amino acid feed additives other than tyrosine and methionine in the feed market. If the supply of L-tryptophan in birds is insufficient, a series of maladaptive symptoms will appear in animals. For example, the rate of fat accumulation is slowed down, the growth of the body is slow, and the male animals sometimes have symptoms such as testicular dysplasia.
Serotonin, the metabolite of tryptophan, has anti-high-density, weaning and other stress effects in animals, promotes the production of R-globulin, and enhances the body's ability to resist disease. Tryptophan can also have an impact on livestock and poultry behavior, reducing aggressive behavior and reducing stress responses. Moreover, adding a small amount of L-tryptophan to the feed can achieve the purpose of promoting the weight gain of animals, which has a good effect.