Read the given passage and answer the following questions : |
Phenylalanine in phenylketonuria (PKU) is converted into which compound that accumulates in the brain? |
Lactic acid Acetyl-CoA Phenylpyruvic acid None of these |
Phenylpyruvic acid |
The correct answer is Option (3)-Phenylpyruvic acid Phenylketonuria : This inborn error of metabolism is also inherited as the autosomal recessive trait. The affected individual lacks an enzyme that converts the amino acid phenylalanine into tyrosine. As a result of this phenylalanine is accumulated and converted into phenylpyruvic acid and other derivatives. Accumulation of these in brain results in mental retardation. These are also excreted through urine because of its poor absorption by kidney. |