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Phenylalanine is a large, neutral amino acid (LNAA). LNAAs compete for transport across the blood–brain barrier (BBB) via the large neutral amino acid transporter (LNAAT). If phenylalanine is in excess in the blood, it will saturate the transporter. Excessive levels of phenylalanine tend to decrease the levels of other LNAAs in the brain.
As a result, phenylalanine from the diet builds up in the bloodstream and other tissues and can lead to brain damage. Neurotransmitters in the brain are also affected, resulting in delayed development, seizures, movement disorders, and other symptoms. In addition, a reduction in the activity of quinoid dihydropteridine reductase may cause ...
Untreated PKU results in irreversible neurological damage. [1] After the discovery of PKU as a cause of mental retardation, Horst Bickel and colleagues discovered that it could be treated successfully with a diet low in phenylalanine. [7] The main drawback in successful treatment of PKU was the delay in identifying affected individuals.
Phenylalanine ball and stick model spinning. Phenylalanine (symbol Phe or F) [3] is an essential α-amino acid with the formula C 9 H 11 NO 2.It can be viewed as a benzyl group substituted for the methyl group of alanine, or a phenyl group in place of a terminal hydrogen of alanine.
Standard phenylalanine concentrations in unaffected persons are about 2-6mg/dl (120–360 μmol/L) phenylalanine concentrations in those with untreated hyperphenylalaninemia can be up to 20 mg/dL (1200 μmol/L). Measurable IQ deficits are often detected as phenylalanine levels approach 10 mg/dL (600 mol/L).
Allergy medications may cause brain damage, increase dementia risk because of course they can, everything can. Alex Lasker. Updated July 14, 2016 at 7:50 PM.
Toxic levels of phenylalanine accumulate in the brains of patients with phenylketonuria leading to severe brain damage and intellectual disability. To prevent brain damage, these individuals can restrict dietary phenylalanine intake by avoiding protein and supplementing their diet with essential amino acids. [185]
The brain can be deprived of oxygen with as little as 4.4 pounds of pressure and can cause loss of consciousness in just ten seconds. When hypoxia begins, permanent brain damage can occur within ...