In phenylketonuria, which of the following substances is in higher than normal concentration in the blood and tissues?

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Multiple Choice

In phenylketonuria, which of the following substances is in higher than normal concentration in the blood and tissues?

Explanation:
Phenylketonuria hinges on a failure to metabolize phenylalanine because the enzyme that converts it to tyrosine is deficient. When this pathway is blocked, phenylalanine builds up in the blood and tissues. That elevated phenylalanine is the hallmark of the condition and is why it’s detected in newborn screening. The excess phenylalanine can be toxic to the developing brain, so reducing its intake through diet is essential to prevent intellectual and developmental problems. Other options listed don’t accumulate in PKU—polypeptides, pepsin, or proteins aren’t the substances that rise in this disorder; the issue is a specific buildup of phenylalanine.

Phenylketonuria hinges on a failure to metabolize phenylalanine because the enzyme that converts it to tyrosine is deficient. When this pathway is blocked, phenylalanine builds up in the blood and tissues. That elevated phenylalanine is the hallmark of the condition and is why it’s detected in newborn screening. The excess phenylalanine can be toxic to the developing brain, so reducing its intake through diet is essential to prevent intellectual and developmental problems. Other options listed don’t accumulate in PKU—polypeptides, pepsin, or proteins aren’t the substances that rise in this disorder; the issue is a specific buildup of phenylalanine.

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