Indoxyl sulfate is a uremic toxin formed when gut bacteria metabolise the amino acid tryptophan into indole, which is then absorbed and converted into indoxyl sulfate in the liver. While small amounts are normally excreted via the kidneys, elevated levels may indicate impaired detoxification, dysbiosis, or renal stress. Indoxyl sulfate has been linked to oxidative stress, systemic inflammation, and vascular dysfunction—especially in individuals with compromised kidney function. It serves as a marker of both microbial activity and the body’s ability to process and eliminate metabolic waste.
It is a compound formed by the bacterial breakdown of tryptophan in the gut. After absorption, it is processed in the liver and then eliminated by the kidneys.
Elevated levels are regarded as harmful because of their pro-inflammatory and pro-oxidative impacts, particularly on renal and cardiovascular health.
Common causes include gut dysbiosis, protein-rich diets, impaired liver sulfation pathways, and reduced kidney clearance.
Supporting gut health with prebiotics and probiotics, reducing protein overload, and enhancing liver and kidney detoxification may help lower levels.