Question

What happens when phenylalanine accumulates in the body?

Answer 1

Phenylalanine:

1. Phenylalanine is an amino acid.
2. It occurs in foods like milk, eggs, meat, etc.
3. It is also used as a dietary supplement.

Accumulation of phenylalanine:

1. Phenylketonuria is a rare disorder that leads to the accumulation of phenylalanine within the body.
2. When phenylalanine accumulates, it gets converted into phenyl pyruvic acid and other derivatives.
3. Accumulation of phenylalanine results in brain damage, seizures, intellectual disabilities and mental retardation.