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Phenylacetylglutamine (PAG)

Meaning

Phenylacetylglutamine (PAG) is a biologically active metabolite produced in the human body, primarily resulting from the detoxification and conjugation of phenylacetic acid, a compound often derived from the microbial metabolism of phenylalanine in the gut. This compound serves as a key indicator of the gut-brain axis integrity and microbial metabolic activity, particularly reflecting the interaction between the gut microbiota and host physiology. Elevated levels of PAG are sometimes observed in conditions of altered gut permeability or dysbiosis, providing a measurable link between the intestinal environment and systemic metabolic processes relevant to hormonal health.