also known as phenylketone). This results in a poisonous build-up of phenylketone in the blood and urine that is why it is called phenylketonuria. When PKU is untreated, it can lead to brain damage, mental retardation and other serious medical problems. Babies with PKU are normal at birth due to the mother’s ability to break down phenylalanine during pregnancy. PKU can be diagnosed through a simple blood test for elevated phenylalanine levels shortly after birth. Answer the following questions: 1. What is phenylketonuria (PKU)? How important is the synthesis of correct proteins? 2. How can PKU be treated in relation to the diet or intake of phenylalanine?

Human Anatomy & Physiology (11th Edition)
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Phenylketonuria (PKU) is a genetic disorder that causes the abnormal metabolism of the amino acid called phenylalanine. PKU is an autosomal recessive disease due to a mutation in the gene encoding the enzyme phenylalanine hydroxylase. Phenylalanine hydroxylase (PAH) usually converts excess phenylalanine into tyrosine. In persons with PKU, the remaining phenylalanine is instead converted into phenylpyruvate (also known as phenylketone). This results in a poisonous build-up of phenylketone in the blood and urine that is why it is called phenylketonuria. When PKU is untreated, it can lead to brain damage, mental retardation and other serious medical problems. Babies with PKU are normal at birth due to the mother’s ability to break down phenylalanine during pregnancy. PKU can be diagnosed through a simple blood test for elevated phenylalanine levels shortly after birth.

Answer the following questions:
1. What is phenylketonuria (PKU)? How important is the synthesis of correct proteins?
2. How can PKU be treated in relation to the diet or intake of phenylalanine?

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