A Walnut Peptide May Reduce Depression-Like Behaviors in Mice by Blocking IDO1 and Changing Gut Bacteria and Tryptophan Metabolism

WSPSGR treatment reduced depressive-like behaviors in mice subjected to chronic stress.

• The walnut-derived peptide WSPSGR is associated with the inhibition of an enzyme called IDO1.
• Administration of WSPSGR restored the balance of tryptophan metabolism in the mouse model.
• WSPSGR altered the composition of gut microbiota, potentially correcting gut dysbiosis.
• The treatment reduced the activation of the kynurenine pathway linked to depressive symptoms.
• Collectively, these changes may help restore homeostasis in the microbiota-gut-brain axis.

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