This page serves as a cross-reference point for the existing ahr concept page, which provides comprehensive coverage of AhR signaling, microbiome-derived ligands, and immune regulation.
The aryl hydrocarbon receptor is a ligand-activated transcription factor that integrates microbial, dietary, and environmental signals to regulate gut barrier integrity, immune tolerance, and inflammation. Originally identified as a xenobiotic sensor (binding dioxins and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons), AhR is now recognized as a critical node in the microbiome-immune axis, where microbial tryptophan metabolites serve as its primary endogenous ligands.
For full coverage, see ahr.
Key Cross-References
- ahr — comprehensive concept page
- serotonin — 3-IAld/AhR/TPH1 pathway tipping tryptophan toward serotonin
- indoxyl sulfate — toxic tryptophan metabolite; contrast to protective AhR ligands
- lactobacillus — major producer of AhR ligands (3-IAld, ILA)
- anaerostipes — ILA production linking to AhR immunity
- necrotizing enterocolitis — maternal AhR activation protects neonatal gut
- celiac disease — altered indole/AhR ligand production
- bacteroides thetaiotaomicron — indole-derived AhR ligand production