indolylacryloylglycine and Burns

In addition to the main catabolic routes of tryptophan (Trp), there exist minor and less thoroughly investigated pathways; one of these leads to indolylacrylic acid (IAcrA). IAcrA is a plant growth hormone, whereas its biological role in animals is still obscure, as is the way and site where it is formed in the organism. A two-stage production is likely: Intestinal microorganisms catabolize Trp to indole derivatives which are then absorbed and converted to IAcrA and its glycine conjugate, indolylacryloylglycine (IAcrGly). Our finding of IAcrGly in the urine of proven germ-free piglets points to the possibility that Trp can be converted to IAcrA without the intervention of intestinal microorganisms. Seasonal and age variations, influence of light and connection with photodermatoses have been reported. Besides other pathological conditions the differences in IAcrGly excretion relative to normal controls were especially pronounced in some myopathies, namely in boys with Duchenne muscular dystrophy.

Topics: Aging; Burns; Diet; Glycine; Humans; Indoles; Muscular Dystrophies; Skin Diseases; Tryptophan; Urinary Bladder Neoplasms

Indolylacryloylglycine (IAcrGly) is a regular constituent of human urine. Changes in its excretion have been observed, among other conditions, in some skin diseases. Skin lesions in burns are dealt with in the present paper. IAcrGly excretion has been followed during several weeks of hospital treatment and compared with that of two other tryptophan metabolites, namely indolylacetic acid (IAA) and 5-hydroxyindolylacetic acid (5-HIAA). The average excretion of IAcrGly was significantly lower especially between day 3 and 15 post injury. Some alternative explanations of these results are put forward.

Topics: Adolescent; Adult; Burns; Female; Glycine; Humans; Hydroxyindoleacetic Acid; Indoleacetic Acids; Male; Middle Aged