The kynurenine pathway (KP) is a major route for the metabolism of the essential amino acid L-tryptophan (Trp) in mammalian cells. Activation of the KP during neuro-inflammation can lead to the production of various endogenous neuroactive metabolites that may impact brain functions and behaviors. Furthermore, neurotoxic metabolites and excitotoxicity resulting from KP activation can induce long-term changes in nutritional support, the glutamatergic system, and synaptic function. Therefore, investigating the role of KP metabolites during neurodevelopment is likely to enhance our understanding the pathophysiology of neurodevelopmental disorders, including autism spectrum dis- order (ASD). In this review, we elucidate alterations in KP metabolism during pregnancy and represent how KP metabolites during neurodevelopment period influence behavioral impairments in later stages of life.
