Quinolinic acid
QUIN
Neurotoxic
What it isKynurenine-pathway metabolite of tryptophan made by activated microglia and macrophages; precursor of NAD⁺.
Why this oneNMDA receptor agonist and pro-oxidant — the brain’s own excitotoxin, raised in HIV-associated neurocognitive disorder, Huntington, Alzheimer, ALS, MS and depression.
What limits itIts counterpart kynurenic acid blocks the NMDA glycine site; the two set the pathway’s balance.
NO BOXED WARNINGS
Principal riskExcitotoxic at raised CNS concentrations
Classes and tags
Clinical profile
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Self-check
- Quinolinic acid: What does it do at NMDA receptors?
Agonism. - Quinolinic acid: Which counterpart blocks the NMDA glycine site?
Kynurenic acid.