Tryptophan (Trp), an αâamino acid, is the precursor of serotonin (5âhydroxytryptamine, 5âHT), which is involved in a variety of features of metabolic function and human nutrition. Evidence highlights the role of Trp metabolites (exclusively 5âHT) in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract; however, the mechanisms of action involved in the release of 5âHT in the GI tract are still unknown. Considering the fact that variations of 5âHT may facilitate the growth of certain GI disorders, gaining a better understanding of the function and release of 5âHT in the GI tract would be beneficial. Additionally, investigating Trp metabolism may clarify the relationship between Trp and gut microbiota. It is believed that other metabolites of Trp (mostly that of the kynurenine pathway) may play a significant role in controlling gut microbiota function. In this review, we have attempted to summarize the current research investigating the relationship of gut microbiota, Trp and 5âHT metabolism (with particular attention paid to their metabolite type, as well as a discussion of the research methods used in each study). Taking together, regarding the role that Trp/5âHT plays in a range of physical and mental diseases, the gut bacterial types, as well as the related disorders, have been exclusively considered.