What cells in the body are affected by PKU?

What cells in the body are affected by PKU?

PKU affects the brain. The signaling molecules that brain cells use to communicate with each other are called neurotransmitters. When neurotransmitters are not made in the right amounts, the brain cannot function properly.

How does PKU affect daily life?

PKU leads to a build-up of the amino acid phenylalanine, which is toxic to the nervous system. Without treatment, PKU can cause intellectual disabilities. PKU does not shorten life expectancy, with or without treatment. Newborn screening for PKU is required in all 50 states.

What does PKU do to cells?

The PKU gene tells the cell to make an enzyme that breaks down the amino acid phenylalanine. Faults in the genes (mutations) may cause problems in the body because the correct message is not being sent. In PKU, the cells are not making the enzyme that breaks down phenylalanine, so it builds up in the blood and tissues.

How does PKU affect physical development?

A baby born to a woman who has PKU that is not controlled with a special diet is at high risk for serious problems. The developing baby in the uterus can be exposed to very high levels of phenylalanine. This can cause low birth weight, slow growth, small head, behavior problems, and heart disorders.

Can u live with PKU?

Treatment includes a special diet and regular blood tests. With early diagnosis and the correct treatment, most children with PKU are able to live healthy lives.

Can a baby with PKU breastfeed?

Can I breastfeed my baby if I have PKU? Yes you can breastfeed! Breastfeeding is possible for women who have normal babies and who have phe levels in the safe range.

What effect does PKU have on tyrosine?

This amino acid is used by the body to make tyrosine. Because of this, people with PKU can have low levels of tyrosine in the body. To prevent tyrosine levels from becoming too low, people with PKU are advised to consume medical foods containing tyrosine but very little phenylalanine.

Does aspartame interact with PKU?

PKU patients are usually advised to eat a lot of fruits and vegetables because they contain little phenylalanine. Patients with PKU should avoid products containing the artificial sweetener aspartame, according to MedlinePlus 1. When digested, aspartame produces amounts of phenylalanine considered dangerous to PKU patients.

What are the treatments for PKU?

Treatment of phenylketonuria (PKU) is primarily diet-based; however, some patients may benefit from the administration of large neutral amino acids (additional studies are needed).

What are common symptoms of phenylketonuria (PKU)?

As a result, children with PKU often will have pale skin, blond hair and blue eyes. Dry skin; eczema; and a “musty” odor resulting from the buildup of phenylalanine in hair, skin and urine are also common. Other signs and symptoms may include irritability, muscle stiffness, seizures, a small head and short stature.