Kynurenic Acid Unit Converter

Kynurenic acid (KYNA) is a naturally occurring compound produced when your body breaks down the amino acid tryptophan. It is formed along the kynurenine pathway, which metabolises over 90% of dietary tryptophan.

KYNA acts as a neuroprotective agent by blocking certain glutamate receptors (NMDA, AMPA) that, when overstimulated, can damage brain cells. It also influences immune regulation and gastrointestinal signalling through other receptor pathways.

Measuring kynurenic acid helps assess the balance between neuroprotective and neurotoxic branches of tryptophan metabolism, and can reflect inflammation, B-vitamin status, and immune activation.

Kynurenic acid is produced throughout the body by the enzyme kynurenine aminotransferase (KAT), with the liver being the primary site of tryptophan metabolism via tryptophan 2,3-dioxygenase (TDO). Immune cells and other tissues also contribute through indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase (IDO), particularly during inflammation. Gut bacteria can also modulate KYNA production, and small amounts are obtained directly from foods such as honey, broccoli, and potatoes.