a by-product of glutathione production
Organic Acids
Organic acids panels are used to test for the organic acids present in urine, which are byproducts of daily cellular metabolism. These organic acid markers offer valuable insights into identifying the underlying causes of chronic symptoms. By following known metabolic pathways and enzyme-cofactor requirements, healthcare providers can use these markers to detect imbalances, toxicity, and inflammation in chronically or acutely ill patients with complex illnesses. The comprehensive information provided by organic acids testing, in conjunction with other diagnostic tests, allows practitioners to form a complete clinical picture of the root causes of a patient's condition. This, in turn, guides the development of personalized and effective interventions.
Biomarkers in this category
77 biomarkers · optimal ranges shown
a conjugate of hydroxybenzoic acid (salicylic acid) and glycine.
a metabolite of the branched-chain amino acid leucine
Amino Acid Metabolite
Tyrosine-related gut metabolite
Amino Acid Metabolite
an intermediate in the Krebs cycle
BCAA metabolite
Precursor of CoQ10
marker for glutaryl CoA dehydrogenase deficiency
3-Indoleacetic Acid (IAA): What It Is and Its Role in Health 3-Indoleacetic acid (IAA) is an indole compound produced during the breakdown of tryptophan by intestinal microbiota. Several gut bacteria are responsible for IAA production, including: Bacteroides: B. ovatus, B. eggerthii, B. thetaiotaomicron, B. fragilis Clostridium: C. stricklandii, C. lituseburense, C. subterminale, C. putrefaciens Bifidobacterium and Eubacterium species Benefits of IAA IAA plays several beneficial roles in maintaining gut and overall health: Antioxidant Activity: Scavenges free radicals and reduces oxidative stress. Anti-inflammatory Properties: Helps lower pro-inflammatory cytokine production. Gut Health and Immunity: Supports intestinal balance and strengthens mucosal immunity by activating the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) pathway. What Causes Elevated IAA Levels? Phenylketonuria (PKU): Higher IAA levels have been observed in individuals with PKU. Dietary Factors: A diet rich in tryptophan or tryptophan supplementation can increase IAA production. Key Takeaways IAA is a by-product of tryptophan metabolism, primarily produced by specific gut bacteria. It supports gut health, reduces inflammation, and protects against oxidative damage. Elevated levels may signal metabolic conditions like PKU or result from dietary choices. Monitoring IAA levels can provide valuable insights into your gut health and metabolic function.
BCAA metabolite
Amino acid mitochondrial metabolite
Marker for Mitochondrial Disorder
3-Oxoglutaric acid is a simple carboxylic acid and a key intermediate in the Krebs cycle, which has also been identified as a microbial metabolite. Its presence is often linked to the overgrowth of harmful or dysbiotic gut flora, such as Candida albicans. Research has shown that children with autism tend to have lower levels of 3-oxoglutaric acid, potentially due to increased uptake of this compound across the blood-brain barrier. Elevated levels of 3-oxoglutaric acid may suggest a yeast overgrowth in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. It may be beneficial to consider further testing, such as a Gut Zoomer panel and fungal antibodies test, to assess the extent of dysbiosis and identify the root cause. A gut restorative protocol, which could include high-potency multi-strain probiotics, prescription or natural antifungals, and other targeted gut support, may be recommended to help restore microbial balance and improve overall gut health.
C. difficile
Ketone and fatty acid oxidation
Yeast and Fungal Marker
A ketone body
Mitochondrial marker / krebs cycle metabolite
Fatty acid metabolite
Breakdown product of hyaluronic acid
Vitamin C
Carboxycitric acid, an analogue of the Krebs/citric acid cycle, serves as a marker for intestinal microbial overgrowth, particularly involving yeast and fungi. As a byproduct of the Krebs cycle, elevated levels may also point to energy metabolism disorders. Research has shown that children with autism tend to have lower levels of 3-oxoglutaric acid, which is thought to result from increased uptake of these compounds across the blood-brain barrier. Urinary levels of carboxycitric acid have been observed to decrease following nystatin therapy. To identify the root cause, consider testing with a Gut Zoomer, fungal antibodies, or a mycotoxin panel. Implementing multi-strain probiotics and comprehensive gastrointestinal support can help improve this condition.
Citric acid, cis-aconitic acid, and isocitric acid are the first three metabolites in the Krebs cycle.
3,4-Dihydroxyphenylpropionic acid (DHPPA) is a marker for beneficial and commensal bacteria. It is produced when specific bacteria metabolize chlorogenic acid, a polyphenol found in various foods, including apples, pears, peas, coffee, sunflower seeds, carrots, blueberries, cherries, potatoes, tomatoes, eggplants, sweet potatoes, peaches, wine polyphenols, and catechins. The primary bacteria responsible for this process include Lactobacilli, Bifidobacteria, and E. coli. DHPPA acts as an antioxidant, helping to lower cholesterol, reduce pro-inflammatory cytokines, and protect against harmful bacteria. Elevated DHPPA levels may reflect a high dietary intake of polyphenols or an overgrowth of bacteria leading to increased polyphenol conversion.
Metabolite of the omega fatty acid pathway.
Used in the body’s metabolic pathway that generates cellular energy
A conjugate of furancarboxylic acid and the amino acid glycine.
An inhibitory neurotransmitter in the central nervous system
Vitamin Markers
Oxalate Marker
DYSBIOSIS MARKER
Dopamine metabolism marker
an abnormal phenylalanine metabolite of Clostridia spp
HVA and DOPAC are the major metabolites of dopamine.
Formed from pyruvate
Energy Metabolism
Elevation usually indicates a biotin deficiency (Vitamin H)
Early indicator of vitamin B12 deficiency.
a methyl-branched fatty acid
Elevated levels are due to Carnavan’s disease
a powerful antioxidant
an essential B vitamin (B5)
a metabolite of phenylalanine
Phenylpyruvic Acid: What It Is and Why It Matters Phenylpyruvic acid is a by-product of phenylalanine metabolism, a process that breaks down this essential amino acid. Phenylalanine is found in many protein-rich foods and dietary supplements. Consuming a lot of phenylalanine can raise phenylpyruvic acid levels, but persistently high levels are typically associated with specific health conditions. Causes of Elevated Phenylpyruvic Acid Levels Phenylketonuria (PKU): Chronically high levels of phenylpyruvic acid are a hallmark of PKU, a genetic disorder caused by a mutation in the phenylalanine hydroxylase (PAH) enzyme. This enzyme is essential for converting phenylalanine into tyrosine. BH4 Deficiency: Tetrahydrobiopterin (BH4) is a crucial cofactor for PAH. A deficiency in BH4 can also lead to increased phenylpyruvic acid levels. This can result from: GTP cyclohydrolyase I (GTPCH) deficiency 6-pyruvoyl-tetrahydropterin synthase (PTPS) deficiency Dihydropteridine reductase (DHPR) deficiency Pterin-4a-carbinolamine dehydratase (PCD) deficiency Other Factors: High protein intake Premature birth Liver disease Gut dysbiosis (an imbalance in gut bacteria) Role of Gut Microbiota Phenylpyruvic acid is not just a metabolic by-product; it is also produced by certain gut bacteria, like Lactobacillus plantarum, commonly found in fermented foods and the digestive system. Elevated levels might indicate imbalances in gut bacteria, also known as gut dysbiosis. Key Takeaways Elevated phenylpyruvic acid may result from metabolic disorders, such as PKU, or issues in BH4 metabolism. High protein diets, liver disease, and gut microbiota imbalances can also contribute. Regular monitoring of phenylpyruvic acid levels can provide valuable insights into metabolic and gut health. By understanding the causes of high phenylpyruvic acid, you can work with healthcare providers to address potential underlying conditions effectively.
a marker of vitamin D and calcium
Nutritional Marker and major metabolite of vitamin B6
Toxin & Detoxification Markers
an intermediate compound in the metabolism of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats
Marker for Neurotoxicity and Inflammation
breakdown product of fatty acids
Fatty Acid Metabolism
Energy Metabolism
Pyrimidine Metabolites - Folate Metabolism
a marker of folate metabolism