Identification of an error in the tryptophan ? niacin pathway in carriers of some dermatoses conditioned or aggravated by sunlight

Pellagra: a still existing disease

“…As well as the vitamins of the B complex, the enzymes concerned in the metabolism of tryptophan have also been studied. Thus Binazzi and Calandra (1971) supported the view that in pellagra there is an inhibition in the conversion of 3-OH kynurenin to 3-hydroxyanthraliniiic acid due to diminished activity of the kynureninase. Later Calandra (1972) showed also an increase of the activity of tryptophan-pyrolase which catalyses the conversion of tryptophan to kynurenin.…”

“…Earlier investigations have also confirmed dysfunction ofthe gastro-intestinal system. Achlorhydria in pellagra patients has often been observed (Mulholand & King, 1933;Binazzi & Calandra, 1973;Pulantzas, Stratigos & Dosios, 1972).…”

“…In Italy it started to decline at the beginning of the present century and by 1928 less than 100 deaths were reported every year compared to thousands during the 4-year period 1896-1900. Recently Binazzi & Calandra (1973) reported a series of 90 cases from Perugia, of whom 81 were males and only 9 were females. This ratio is similar to that in Greece.…”