Target Exam

CUET

Subject

Biology

Chapter

Principles of Inheritance and Variation

Question:

Read the given passage and answer the following questions :    
Mendelian disorders are mainly determined by alteration or mutation in the single gene. These disorders are transmitted to the offspring on the same lines as we have studied in the principle of inheritance. The pattern of inheritance of such Mendelian disorders can be traced in a family by the pedigree analysis. Most common and prevalent Mendelian disorders are Haemophilia, Cystic fibrosis, Sickle cell anaemia, Colour blindness, Phenylketonuria, Thalassemia, etc. It is important to mention here that such Mendelian disorders may be dominant or recessive.

Phenylalanine in phenylketonuria (PKU) is converted into which compound that accumulates in the brain?

Options:

Lactic acid

Acetyl-CoA

Phenylpyruvic acid

None of these

Correct Answer:

Phenylpyruvic acid

Explanation:

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.