Autism Gut Health, Tryptophan, and Environmental Factors

Is there a biochemical bridge between autism, gut health, and the environment? In this episode, we unpack how disruptions in tryptophan metabolism—an amino acid critical for serotonin production—may play a role in neurodevelopment. We explore the kynurenine pathway, gut-brain signaling, and how environmental triggers like toxins, antibiotics, and diet influence these systems. Backed by recent studies from Cell Reports Medicine and Nature Neuroscience, this episode digs into how microbial shifts and inflammation could intersect with the biology of autism spectrum conditions. Get ready for deep science made simple—and potentially game-changing insights.