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{{short description|Amino acid metabolic disorder}}
{{redirect|PKU}}a
{{redirect|PKU}}
{{Citations missing|date=March 2009}}
{{cs1 config|name-list-style=vanc}}
{{Infobox Disease |
{{Infobox medical condition (new)
Name = Phenylketonuria |
Image = |
| name = Phenylketonuria
| image = L-Phenylalanin - L-Phenylalanine.svg
Caption = [[Phenylalanine]] |
| caption = [[Phenylalanine]]
DiseasesDB = 9987 |
| synonyms = Phenylalanine hydroxylase deficiency, PAH deficiency, Følling disease<ref name=NIH2016/>
ICD10 = {{ICD10|E|70|0|e|70}} |
| field = [[Medical genetics]], [[pediatrics]], [[dietetics]]
ICD9 = {{ICD9|270.1}} |
| symptoms = Without treatment [[intellectual disability]], [[seizure]]s, behavioral problems, [[mental disorder]]s, musty odor<ref name=NIH2016/>
ICDO = |
| complications =
OMIM = 261600 |
| onset = At birth<ref name=NIH2013Tx/>
OMIM_mult = {{OMIM2|261630}} |
MedlinePlus = 001166 |
| duration =
| types = Classic, variant<ref name=NIH2016/>
eMedicineSubj = ped |
| causes = [[Genetics|Genetic]] ([[autosomal recessive]])<ref name=NIH2016/>
eMedicineTopic = 1787 |
| risks =
eMedicine_mult = {{eMedicine2|derm|712}} |
| diagnosis = [[Newborn screening program]]s in many countries<ref name=Al2015/>
MeshID = D010661 |
| differential =
| prevention =
| treatment = [[diet (nutrition)|Diet]] low in foods that contain phenylalanine; special supplements<ref name=NIH2013Tx/>
| medication = [[Sapropterin dihydrochloride]],<ref name=NIH2013Tx/> [[pegvaliase]]<ref name=FDA2018Sub/>
| prognosis = Normal health with treatment<ref name=NIH2000/>
| frequency = ~1 in 12,000 newborns<ref name=Bern2015/>
| deaths =
}}
}}
<!-- Definition and symptoms -->
'''Phenylketonuria''' ('''PKU''') is an [[inborn error of metabolism]] that results in decreased [[metabolism]] of the [[amino acid]] [[phenylalanine]].<ref name="Al2015">{{Cite journal |vauthors=Al Hafid N, Christodoulou J |date=October 2015 |title=Phenylketonuria: a review of current and future treatments |journal=Translational Pediatrics |volume=4 |issue=4 |pages=304–17 |doi=10.3978/j.issn.2224-4336.2015.10.07 |pmc=4728993 |pmid=26835392}}</ref> Untreated PKU can lead to [[intellectual disability]], [[seizure]]s, behavioral problems, and [[mental disorder]]s.<ref name=NIH2016/><ref>{{Cite journal |vauthors=Cannon Homaei S, Barone H, Kleppe R, Betari N, Reif A, Haavik J |date=November 2021 |title=ADHD symptoms in neurometabolic diseases: Underlying mechanisms and clinical implications |journal=[[Neuroscience and Biobehavioral Reviews]] |volume=132 |pages=838–856 |doi=10.1016/j.neubiorev.2021.11.012 |pmid=34774900 |s2cid=243983688 |doi-access=free}}</ref> It may also result in a musty smell and lighter skin.<ref name=NIH2016/> A baby born to a mother who has poorly treated PKU may have heart problems, a [[microcephaly|small head]], and [[low birth weight]].<ref name=NIH2016/>


<!-- Cause, mechanism, and diagnosis -->
'''Phenylketonuria''' ('''PKU''') is an [[Dominance (genetics)|autosomal recessive]] [[genetic disorder]] characterized by a deficiency in the enzyme [[phenylalanine hydroxylase]] (PAH). This enzyme is necessary to metabolize the amino acid [[phenylalanine]] to the amino acid [[tyrosine]]. When PAH is deficient, phenylalanine accumulates and is converted into phenylpyruvate (also known as phenylketone), which is detected in the [[urine]].{{Fact|date=March 2009}}
Phenylketonuria is an [[Heredity|inherited]] genetic disorder. It is caused by mutations in the ''[[PAH gene|PAH]]'' gene, which can result in inefficient or nonfunctional [[phenylalanine hydroxylase]], an [[enzyme]] responsible for the metabolism of excess phenylalanine. This results in the buildup of dietary phenylalanine to potentially toxic levels. It is [[autosomal recessive]], meaning that both copies of the gene must be mutated for the condition to develop. There are two main types, classic PKU and variant PKU, depending on whether any enzyme function remains. Those with one copy of a mutated gene typically do not have symptoms.<ref name="NIH2016">{{Cite web |date=September 8, 2016 |title=phenylketonuria |url=https://ghr.nlm.nih.gov/condition/phenylketonuria |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160727233812/https://ghr.nlm.nih.gov/condition/phenylketonuria |archive-date=27 July 2016 |access-date=12 September 2016 |website=Genetics Home Reference}}</ref> Many countries have [[newborn screening program]]s for the disease.<ref name=Al2015/>


<!-- Treatment and prognosis-->
Left untreated, this condition can cause problems with brain development, leading to progressive [[mental retardation]] and [[seizure]]s. However, PKU is one of the few genetic diseases that can be controlled by diet. A diet low in phenylalanine and high in tyrosine can be a very effective treatment. There is no cure. Damage done is irreversible so early detection is crucial.
Treatment is with a diet that (1) is low in foods that contain phenylalanine, and which (2) includes special supplements. Babies should use a special [[infant formula|formula]] with a small amount of [[breast milk]]. The diet should begin as soon as possible after birth and be continued for life.<ref name="NIH2013Tx">{{Cite web |date=2013-08-23 |title=What are common treatments for phenylketonuria (PKU)? |url=https://www.nichd.nih.gov/health/topics/pku/conditioninfo/Pages/treatments.aspx |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161005121620/https://www.nichd.nih.gov/health/topics/pku/conditioninfo/Pages/treatments.aspx |archive-date=5 October 2016 |access-date=12 September 2016 |website=NICHD}}</ref> People who are diagnosed early and maintain a strict diet can have normal health and a normal [[Longevity|life span]]. Effectiveness is monitored through periodic blood tests.<ref name="NIH2000">{{Cite web |date=October 16–18, 2000 |title=National Institutes of Health Consensus Development Conference Statement Phenylketonuria: Screening and Management |url=https://www.nichd.nih.gov/publications/pubs/pku/pages/sub3.aspx |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161005002837/https://www.nichd.nih.gov/publications/pubs/pku/pages/sub3.aspx |archive-date=5 October 2016 |access-date=12 September 2016 |website=NICHD}}</ref> The medication [[sapropterin dihydrochloride]] may be useful in some.<ref name=NIH2013Tx/>


<!-- Epidemiology and history -->
== History ==
Phenylketonuria affects about 1 in 12,000 babies.<ref name="Bern2015">{{Cite book |last=Bernstein |first=Laurie E. |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=q1LMCQAAQBAJ&pg=PA91 |title=Nutrition Management of Inherited Metabolic Diseases: Lessons from Metabolic University |last2=Rohr |first2=Fran |last3=Helm |first3=Joanna R. |date=2015 |publisher=Springer |isbn=9783319146218 |page=91 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170911010922/https://books.google.ca/books?id=q1LMCQAAQBAJ&pg=PA91 |archive-date=2017-09-11 |url-status=live}}</ref> Males and females are affected equally.<ref>{{Cite book |last=Marcdante |first=Karen |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=hsY0AwAAQBAJ&pg=PA150 |title=Nelson Essentials of Pediatrics |last2=Kliegman |first2=Robert M. |date=2014 |publisher=Elsevier Health Sciences |isbn=9780323226981 |edition=7 |page=150 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170911010922/https://books.google.ca/books?id=hsY0AwAAQBAJ&pg=PA150 |archive-date=2017-09-11 |url-status=live}}</ref> The disease was discovered in 1934 by [[Ivar Asbjørn Følling]], with the importance of diet determined in 1935.<ref name="Kal2010">{{Cite book |last=Kalter |first=Harold |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=DykKlVU0V-oC&pg=PA89 |title=Teratology in the Twentieth Century Plus Ten |date=2010 |publisher=Springer Science & Business Media |isbn=9789048188208 |pages=89–92 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170911010922/https://books.google.ca/books?id=DykKlVU0V-oC&pg=PA89 |archive-date=2017-09-11 |url-status=live}}</ref> As of 2023, [[Gene therapy|genetic therapies]] that aim to directly restore liver PAH activity are a promising and active research field.<ref>{{Cite journal |last=Martinez |first=Michael |last2=Harding |first2=Cary O. |last3=Schwank |first3=Gerald |last4=Thöny |first4=Beat |date=January 2024 |title=State-of-the-art 2023 on gene therapy for phenylketonuria |journal=Journal of Inherited Metabolic Disease |language=en |volume=47 |issue=1 |pages=80–92 |doi=10.1002/jimd.12651 |issn=0141-8955 |pmc=10764640 |pmid=37401651 |pmc-embargo-date=January 4, 2025}}</ref>
Phenylketonuria was discovered by the [[Norwegian people|Norwegian]] physician [[Ivar Asbjørn Følling]] in [[1934]]<ref name="Folling">{{cite journal | author=Folling, A. | year=1934 | title=Ueber Ausscheidung von Phenylbrenztraubensaeure in den Harn als Stoffwechselanomalie in Verbindung mit Imbezillitaet | journal=Ztschr. Physiol. Chem. | volume=227 | pages=169–176}}</ref> when he noticed that hyperphenylalaninemia (HPA) was associated with mental retardation. In Norway, this disorder is known as '''Følling's disease''', named after its discoverer.<ref>{{cite journal | author=Centerwall, S. A. & Centerwall, W. R. | year=2000 | title=The discovery of phenylketonuria: the story of a young couple, two affected children, and a scientist. | url=http://pediatrics.aappublications.org/cgi/content/full/105/1/89 | journal=Pediatrics | volume=105 (1 Pt 1) | pages=89–103 | pmid=10617710 | doi=10.1542/peds.105.1.89}}</ref> Dr. Følling was one of the first physicians to apply detailed chemical analysis to the study of disease. His careful analysis of the urine of two affected siblings led him to request many physicians near Oslo to test the urine of other affected patients. This led to the discovery of the same substance that he had found in eight other patients. The substance found was subjected to much more basic and rudimentary chemical analysis (taste). He conducted tests and found reactions that gave rise to [[benzaldehyde]] and [[benzoic acid]], which led him to conclude the compound contained a [[benzene]] ring. Further testing showed the [[melting point]] to be the same as [[phenylpyruvic acid]], which indicated that the substance was in the urine. His careful science inspired many to pursue similar meticulous and painstaking research with other disorders.


==Screening and presentation==
==Signs and symptoms==
[[File:NIH microcephaly.jpg|thumb|Abnormally small head (microcephaly)]]
[[Image:Phenylketonuria testing.jpg|right|thumb|Blood is taken from a two-week old infant to test for phenylketonuria]]
Untreated PKU can lead to [[intellectual disability]], [[seizure]]s, behavioral problems, and [[mental disorder]]s. It may also result in a musty smell and lighter skin. A baby born to a mother who has poorly treated PKU may have heart problems, a [[microcephaly|small head]], and [[low birth weight]].<ref name=NIH2016/>
PKU is normally detected using the [[High performance liquid chromatography|HPLC]] test, but some clinics still use the [[Guthrie test]], part of national biochemical screening programs. Most babies in developed countries are screened for PKU soon after birth.<ref>{{cite news | first= | last=Mayo Clinic Staff | coauthors= | title=Phenylketonuria (PKU) | date=2007-12-20 | publisher=[[Mayo Clinic]] | url =http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/phenylketonuria/DS00514/DSECTION=1 | work = | pages = | accessdate = 2008-03-13 | language = }}</ref>


Because the mother's body is able to break down phenylalanine during pregnancy, infants with PKU are normal at birth. The disease is not detectable by physical examination at that time, because no damage has yet been done. Newborn screening is performed to detect the disease and initiate treatment before any damage is done. The blood sample is usually taken by a [[neonatal heel prick|heel prick]], typically performed 2–7 days after birth. This test can reveal elevated phenylalanine levels after one or two days of normal infant feeding.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Phenylketonuria (PKU) Test |url=https://www.healthlinkbc.ca/medical-tests/hw41965 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180517005840/https://www.healthlinkbc.ca/medical-tests/hw41965 |archive-date=May 17, 2018 |access-date=Aug 28, 2020 |website=HealthLink BC}}</ref><ref>{{Cite journal |vauthors=Berry SA, Brown C, Grant M, Greene CL, Jurecki E, Koch J, Moseley K, Suter R, van Calcar SC, Wiles J, Cederbaum S |date=August 2013 |title=Newborn screening 50 years later: access issues faced by adults with PKU |journal=Genetics in Medicine |volume=15 |issue=8 |pages=591–9 |doi=10.1038/gim.2013.10 |pmc=3938172 |pmid=23470838}}</ref>
If a child is not screened during the routine Newborn Screening test (typically performed at least 12 hours and generally 24-28 hours after birth, using samples drawn by [[Neonatal heel prick]]), the disease may present clinically with [[seizure]]s, [[albinism]] (excessively fair hair and skin), and a "musty odor" to the baby's sweat and urine (due to [[phenylacetic acid|phenylacetate]], one of the ketones produced). In most cases a repeat test should be done at approximately 2 weeks of age to verify the initial test and uncover any phenylketonuria that was initially missed.


If a child is not diagnosed during the routine newborn screening test and a phenylalanine-restricted diet is not introduced, then phenylalanine levels in the blood will increase over time. Toxic levels of phenylalanine (and insufficient levels of [[tyrosine]]) can interfere with infant development in ways that have permanent effects. The disease may present clinically with [[seizure]]s, [[hypopigmentation]] (excessively fair hair and skin), and a "musty odor" to the baby's sweat and urine (due to [[phenylacetic acid|phenylacetate]], a carboxylic acid produced by the oxidation of phenylacetone). In most cases, a repeat test should be done at approximately two weeks of age to verify the initial test and uncover any phenylketonuria that was initially missed.<ref>{{Cite web |date=14 October 2016 |title=Phenylketonuria (PKU) |url=https://madriella.org/encyclopedia/phenylketonuria-pku/ |access-date=11 April 2021 |website=Madriella Doula Network |publisher=Madriella Network}}</ref>
Untreated children are normal at birth, but fail to attain early developmental milestones, develop [[microcephaly]], and demonstrate progressive impairment of cerebral function. [[Hyperactivity]], [[Electroencephalography|EEG]] abnormalities and seizures, and severe [[learning disability|learning disabilities]] are major clinical problems later in life. A "musty" odor of skin, hair, sweat and urine (due to phenylacetate accumulation); and a tendency to [[hypopigmentation]] and [[eczema]] are also observed.


Untreated children often fail to attain early developmental milestones, develop microcephaly, and demonstrate progressive impairment of cerebral function. [[Hyperactivity]], [[Electroencephalography|EEG]] abnormalities, and seizures, and severe [[learning disability|learning disabilities]] are major clinical problems later in life. A characteristic "musty or mousy" odor on the skin, as well as a predisposition for [[eczema]], persist throughout life in the absence of treatment.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Phenylketonuria |url=https://markerdb.ca/conditions/267 |access-date=11 April 2021 |website=MarkerDB |publisher=[[David S. Wishart|Wishart Research Group]]}}</ref>
In contrast, affected children who are detected and treated are less likely to develop neurological problems and have seizures and mental retardation, though such clinical disorders are still possible.

The damage done to the brain if PKU is untreated during the first months of life is not reversible. It is critical to control the diet of infants with PKU very carefully so that the brain has an opportunity to develop normally. Affected children who are detected at birth and treated are much less likely to develop neurological problems or have seizures and intellectual disability (though such clinical disorders are still possible including asthma, eczema, anemia, weight gain, renal insufficiency, osteoporosis, gastritis, esophagus, and kidney deficiencies, kidney stones, and hypertension). Additionally, major depressive disorders occur 230% higher than controls; dizziness and giddiness occur 180% higher; chronic ischemic heart disease, asthma, diabetes, and gastroenteritis occur 170% higher; and stress and adjustment disorders occur 160% higher.<ref name="pmid30266197">{{Cite journal |last=Burton BK, Jones KB, Cederbaum S, Rohr F, Waisbren S, Irwin DE |display-authors=etal |year=2018 |title=Prevalence of comorbid conditions among adult patients diagnosed with phenylketonuria. |journal=Mol Genet Metab |volume=125 |issue=3 |pages=228–234 |doi=10.1016/j.ymgme.2018.09.006 |pmid=30266197 |doi-access=free}}</ref><ref name="pmid31331350">{{Cite journal |last=Trefz KF, Muntau AC, Kohlscheen KM, Altevers J, Jacob C, Braun S |display-authors=etal |year=2019 |title=Clinical burden of illness in patients with phenylketonuria (PKU) and associated comorbidities - a retrospective study of German health insurance claims data. |journal=Orphanet J Rare Dis |volume=14 |issue=1 |pages=181 |doi=10.1186/s13023-019-1153-y |pmc=6647060 |pmid=31331350 |doi-access=free}}</ref> In general, however, outcomes for people treated for PKU are good. Treated people may have no detectable physical, neurological, or developmental problems at all.{{Citation needed|date=September 2024}}

==Genetics==
[[Image:autorecessive.svg|thumb|250px|Phenylketonuria is inherited in an [[Dominance (genetics)|autosomal recessive]] fashion]]

PKU is an [[Dominance (genetics)|autosomal recessive]] metabolic [[genetic disorder]]. As an autosomal recessive disorder, two PKU [[allele]]s are required for an individual to experience symptoms of the disease. For a child to inherit PKU, both parents must have and pass on the defective gene.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Phenylketonuria (PKU) - Symptoms and causes |url=https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/phenylketonuria/symptoms-causes/syc-20376302 |access-date=2020-03-10 |website=Mayo Clinic |language=en}}</ref> If both parents are carriers for PKU, there is a 25% chance any child they have will be born with the disorder, a 50% chance the child will be a carrier and a 25% chance the child will neither develop nor be a carrier for the disease.<ref name=NIH2000/>

PKU is characterized by [[homozygous]] or [[compound heterozygosity|compound heterozygous]] [[mutation]]s in the gene for the hepatic enzyme [[phenylalanine hydroxylase]] (PAH), rendering it nonfunctional.<ref name="Andrews">{{Cite book |last=James |first=William D. |title=Andrews' Diseases of the Skin: clinical Dermatology |last2=Berger |first2=Timothy G. |publisher=Saunders Elsevier |year=2006 |isbn=978-0-7216-2921-6}}</ref>{{Rp|541}} This enzyme is necessary to metabolize the amino acid [[phenylalanine]] (Phe) to the amino acid [[tyrosine]] (Tyr). When PAH activity is reduced, phenylalanine accumulates and is converted into [[phenylpyruvate]] (also known as phenylketone), which can be detected in the [[urine]].<ref name="Gonzalez, Jason; Willis, Monte S. 118–119">{{Cite journal |last=Gonzalez |first=Jason |last2=Willis |first2=Monte S. |date=Feb 2010 |title=Ivar Asbjörn Følling |journal=Laboratory Medicine |volume=41 |issue=2 |pages=118–119 |doi=10.1309/LM62LVV5OSLUJOQF |doi-access=free}}</ref>

Carriers of a single PKU allele do not exhibit symptoms of the disease but appear to be protected to some extent against the fungal toxin [[ochratoxin A]]. [[Louis Isaac Woolf|Louis Woolf]] suggested that this accounted for the persistence of the allele in certain populations,<ref name="Woolf">{{Cite journal |author-link=Louis Isaac Woolf |vauthors=Woolf LI |date=May 1986 |title=The heterozygote advantage in phenylketonuria |journal=American Journal of Human Genetics |volume=38 |issue=5 |pages=773–5 |pmc=1684820 |pmid=3717163}}</ref> in that it confers a [[fitness (biology)|selective advantage]]—in other words, being a [[Heterozygote advantage|heterozygote is advantageous]].<ref name="Lewis1997">{{Cite book |last=Lewis |first=Ricki |title=Human Genetics |date=1997 |publisher=Wm. C. Brown |isbn=978-0-697-24030-9 |location=Chicago, IL |pages=247–248}}</ref>

The PAH gene is located on [[chromosome 12 (human)|chromosome 12]] in the bands 12q22-q24.2.<ref>{{Cite book |last=Rosenberg |first=Roger N. |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=p3i0BdSlpukC&pg=PA820 |title=The Molecular and Genetic Basis of Neurologic and Psychiatric Disease |last2=Barchi |first2=Robert L. |author-link2=Robert L. Barchi |last3=DiMauro |first3=Salvatore |author-link3=Salvatore DiMauro |last4=Prusiner |first4=Stanley B. |author-link4=Stanley B. Prusiner |last5=Nestler |first5=Eric J. |author-link5=Eric J. Nestler |date=2003 |publisher=Butterworth-Heinemann |isbn=9780750673600 |page=820 |language=en}}</ref> As of 2000, around 400 disease-causing mutations had been found in the PAH gene. This is an example of allelic [[genetic heterogeneity]].<ref name=NIH2000/>


==Pathophysiology==
==Pathophysiology==
When phenylalanine (Phe) cannot be metabolized by the body, a typical diet that would be healthy for people without PKU causes abnormally high levels of Phe to accumulate in the blood, which is toxic to the brain. If left untreated (and often even in treatment), complications of PKU include severe intellectual disability, brain function abnormalities, microcephaly, mood disorders, irregular motor functioning, and behavioral problems such as [[attention deficit hyperactivity disorder]], as well as physical symptoms such as a "musty" odor, eczema, and unusually light skin and hair coloration.<ref>{{Cite journal |last=Ashe |first=Killian |last2=Kelso |first2=Wendy |last3=Farrand |first3=Sarah |last4=Panetta |first4=Julie |last5=Fazio |first5=Tim |last6=De Jong |first6=Gerard |last7=Walterfang |first7=Mark |date=2019 |title=Psychiatric and Cognitive Aspects of Phenylketonuria: The Limitations of Diet and Promise of New Treatments |journal=Front. Psychiatry |volume=10 |issue=561 |page=561 |doi=10.3389/fpsyt.2019.00561 |pmc=6748028 |pmid=31551819 |doi-access=free}}</ref>


===Classical PKU===
Classical PKU is caused by a mutated gene for the [[enzyme]] [[phenylalanine hydroxylase]] (PAH), which converts the amino acid phenylalanine to other essential compounds in the body. A rarer form of the disease occurs when PAH is normal but there is a defect in the biosynthesis or recycling of the [[Cofactor (biochemistry)|cofactor]] [[tetrahydrobiopterin]] (BH<sub>4</sub>) by the patient.<ref>{{cite journal | author=Surtees, R., Blau, N. | year=2000 | title=The neurochemistry of phenylketonuria | journal=European Journal of Pediatrics | volume=169 | pages=S109–13 | pmid=11043156 | doi=10.1007/PL00014370}}</ref> This cofactor is necessary for proper activity of the enzyme. Other, non-PAH mutations can also cause PKU.
Classical PKU, and its less severe forms "mild PKU" and "mild hyperphenylalaninemia" are caused by a mutated gene for the [[enzyme]] [[phenylalanine hydroxylase]] (PAH), which converts the amino acid phenylalanine ("Phe") to other essential compounds in the body, in particular tyrosine. Tyrosine is a conditionally essential [[amino acid]] for PKU patients because without PAH it cannot be produced in the body through the breakdown of phenylalanine.{{Citation needed|date=September 2024}}
The PAH gene is located on [[chromosome 12 (human)|chromosome 12]] in the bands 12q22-q24.1. More than four hundred disease-causing mutations have been found in the PAH gene. PAH deficiency causes a spectrum of disorders including classic phenylketonuria (PKU) and hyperphenylalaninemia (a less severe accumulation of phenylalanine).<ref>[http://www.genenames.org/data/hgnc_data.php?hgnc_id=8582 http://www.genenames.org] Phenylalanine hydroxylase (PAH) gene summary, retrieved [[September 8]], [[2006]]</ref>


PAH deficiency causes a spectrum of disorders, including classic phenylketonuria (PKU) and mild hyperphenylalaninemia (also known as "hyperphe" or "mild HPA"),<ref>{{Cite book |last=Regier |first=Debra S. |url=http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK1504/ |title=GeneReviews® |last2=Greene |first2=Carol L. |date=July 25, 1993 |publisher=University of Washington, Seattle |editor-last=Adam |editor-first=Margaret P. |chapter=Phenylalanine Hydroxylase Deficiency |pmid=20301677 |editor-last2=Mirzaa |editor-first2=Ghayda M. |editor-last3=Pagon |editor-first3=Roberta A. |editor-last4=Wallace |editor-first4=Stephanie E. |editor-last5=Bean |editor-first5=Lora JH |editor-last6=Gripp |editor-first6=Karen W. |editor-last7=Amemiya |editor-first7=Anne |via=PubMed}}</ref> a less severe accumulation of phenylalanine. Compared to classic PKU patients, patients with "hyperphe" have greater PAH enzyme activity and are able to tolerate larger amounts of phenylalanine in their diets. Without dietary intervention, mild HPA patients have blood Phe levels higher than those with normal PAH activity. There is currently no international consensus on the definition of mild HPA, however, it is most frequently diagnosed at blood Phe levels between 2–6&nbsp;mg/dL.<ref>{{Cite journal |vauthors=de la Parra A, García MI, Waisbren SE, Cornejo V, Raimann E |date=December 2015 |title=Cognitive functioning in mild hyperphenylalaninemia |journal=Molecular Genetics and Metabolism Reports |volume=5 |pages=72–75 |doi=10.1016/j.ymgmr.2015.10.009 |pmc=5471391 |pmid=28649547}}</ref>
PKU is an [[Dominance (genetics)|autosomal recessive]] genetic disorder, meaning that each parent must have at least one mutated [[allele]] of the gene for PAH, and the child must inherit two mutated alleles, one from each parent. As a result, it is possible for a parent with PKU [[phenotype]] to have a child without PKU if the other parent possesses at least one functional allele of the PAH gene; but a child of two parents with PKU will always inherit two mutated alleles, and therefore the disease.


Phenylalanine is a large, neutral amino acid (LNAA). LNAAs compete for transport across the [[blood–brain barrier]] (BBB) via the [[CD98|large neutral amino acid transporter]] (LNAAT). If phenylalanine is in excess in the blood, it will saturate the transporter. Excessive levels of phenylalanine tend to decrease the levels of other LNAAs in the brain. As these amino acids are necessary for protein and neurotransmitter synthesis, Phe buildup hinders the development of the [[Human brain|brain]], causing [[intellectual disability]].<ref name="Pietz">{{Cite journal |vauthors=Pietz J, Kreis R, Rupp A, Mayatepek E, Rating D, Boesch C, Bremer HJ |year=1999 |title=Large neutral amino acids block phenylalanine transport into brain tissue in patients with phenylketonuria |journal=Journal of Clinical Investigation |volume=103 |issue=8 |pages=1169–1178 |doi=10.1172/JCI5017 |pmc=408272 |pmid=10207169}}</ref>
Phenylketonuria can exist in mice, which have been extensively used in experiments into an effective treatment for PKU<ref>{{cite journal | author=Oh, H. J., Park, E. S., Kang, S., Jo, I., Jung, S. C. | year=2004 | url=http://www.pedresearch.org/cgi/content/full/56/2/278 | title=Long-Term Enzymatic and Phenotypic Correction in the Phenylketonuria Mouse Model by Adeno-Associated Virus Vector-Mediated Gene Transfer | journal=Pediatric Research | volume=56 | pages=278–284 | pmid=15181195 | doi = 10.1203/01.PDR.0000132837.29067.0E <!--Retrieved from CrossRef by DOI bot-->}}</ref>. The [[macaque]] monkey's genome was recently sequenced, and it was found that the gene encoding phenylalanine hydroxylase has the same sequence which in humans would be considered the PKU mutation.<ref>{{cite journal |last=Gibbs |first=Richard A. |coauthors=Jeffrey Rogers, Michael G. Katze, Roger Bumgarner, George M. Weinstock, Elaine R. Mardis, Karin A. Remington, et al. |year=2007 |month=April |title=Evolutionary and Biomedical Insights from the Rhesus Macaque Genome |journal=Science |volume=316 |issue=5822 |pages=222–234 |doi=10.1126/science.1139247 |url=http://www.sciencemag.org/cgi/content/full/316/5822/222 |accessdate= 2008-02-26 |pmid=17431167}}</ref>


Recent research suggests that neurocognitive, psychosocial, quality of life, growth, nutrition, bone pathology are slightly suboptimal even for patients who are treated and maintain their Phe levels in the target range, if their diet is not supplemented with other amino acids.<ref name="pmid20678948">{{Cite journal |vauthors=Enns GM, Koch R, Brumm V, Blakely E, Suter R, Jurecki E |date=1 October 2010 |title=Suboptimal outcomes in patients with PKU treated early with diet alone: Revisiting the evidence |journal=Molecular Genetics and Metabolism |volume=101 |issue=2–3 |pages=99–109 |doi=10.1016/j.ymgme.2010.05.017 |pmid=20678948}}</ref>
==Metabolic pathways==
The enzyme [[phenylalanine hydroxylase]] normally converts the [[amino acid]] [[phenylalanine]] into the amino acid [[tyrosine]]. If this reaction does not take place, phenylalanine accumulates and tyrosine is deficient. Excessive phenylalanine can be metabolized into phenylketones through the minor route, a [[transaminase]] pathway with [[glutamic acid|glutamate]]. Metabolites include [[phenylacetic acid|phenylacetate]], [[phenylpyruvate]] and [[phenethylamine]]<ref>{{cite journal | author=Michals, K., Matalon, R. | title=Phenylalanine metabolites, attention span and hyperactivity | journal=American JouRnal of Clinical Nutrition | year=1985 | volume=42(2) | pages=361–365 | pmid=4025205}}</ref>. Elevated blood phenylalanine and detection of phenylketones in the urine is diagnostic.


Classic PKU affects myelination and white matter tracts in untreated infants; this may be one major cause of neurological problems associated with phenylketonuria. Differences in white matter development are observable with [[magnetic resonance imaging]]. Abnormalities in gray matter can also be detected,<ref>{{Cite journal |vauthors=Terribilli D, Schaufelberger MS |date=10 May 2020 |title=Age-related gray matter volume changes in the brain during non-elderly adulthood |journal=Neurobiology of Aging |volume=32 |issue=2–6 |pages=354–368 |doi=10.1016/j.neurobiolaging.2009.02.008 |pmc=3004040 |pmid=19282066}}</ref> particularly in the motor and pre-motor cortex, thalamus and the hippocampus.<ref>{{Cite journal |last=Hawks |first=Zoë |last2=Hood |first2=Anna M. |last3=Lerman-Sinkoff |first3=Dov B. |last4=Shimony |first4=Joshua S. |last5=Rutlin |first5=Jerrel |last6=Lagoni |first6=Daniel |last7=Grange |first7=Dorothy K. |last8=White |first8=Desirée A. |date=2019-01-01 |title=White and gray matter brain development in children and young adults with phenylketonuria |journal=NeuroImage: Clinical |volume=23 |pages=101916 |doi=10.1016/j.nicl.2019.101916 |issn=2213-1582 |pmc=6627563 |pmid=31491833}}</ref>
Phenylalanine is a large, neutral amino acid (LNAA). LNAAs compete for transport across the [[blood-brain barrier]] (BBB) via the [[CD98|large neutral amino acid transporter]] (LNAAT). Excessive phenylalanine in the blood saturates the transporter. Thus, excessive levels of phenylalanine significantly decrease the levels of other LNAAs in the brain. But since these amino acids are required for protein and neurotransmitter synthesis, phenylalanine accumulation disrupts [[brain]] development, leading to [[mental retardation]].<ref name="Pietz">{{cite journal | author=Pietz, J., Kreis, R., Rupp, A., Mayatepek, E., Rating, D., Boesch, C., Bremer, H. J. | year=1999 | url=http://www.jci.org/cgi/content/full/103/8/1169 | title=Large neutral amino acids block phenylalanine transport into brain tissue in patients with phenylketonuria | journal=Journal of Clinical Investigation | volume=103 | pages=1169–1178 | pmid=10207169 | doi = 10.1172/JCI5017}}</ref>


It was recently suggested that PKU may resemble [[amyloid]] diseases, such as Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson's disease, due to the formation of toxic amyloid-like assemblies of phenylalanine.<ref>{{Cite journal |vauthors=Adler-Abramovich L, Vaks L, Carny O, Trudler D, Magno A, Caflisch A, Frenkel D, Gazit E |date=August 2012 |title=Phenylalanine assembly into toxic fibrils suggests amyloid etiology in phenylketonuria |journal=Nature Chemical Biology |volume=8 |issue=8 |pages=701–6 |doi=10.1038/nchembio.1002 |pmid=22706200}}</ref>
== Treatment ==
If PKU is diagnosed early enough, an affected newborn can grow up with normal brain development, but only by eating a special diet low in [[phenylalanine]] for the rest of his or her life. This requires severely restricting or eliminating foods high in phenylalanine, such as [[meat]], [[Chicken (food)|chicken]], [[fish as food|fish]], [[nut (fruit)|nut]]s, [[cheese]], [[legume]]s and other dairy products. Starchy foods such as [[potato]]es, [[bread]], [[pasta]], and [[maize|corn]] must be monitored. Infants may still be breastfed to provide all of the benefits of breastmilk, though the quantity must be monitored and supplementation will be required. Many diet foods and diet soft drinks that contain the sweetener [[aspartame]] must also be avoided, as aspartame consists of two amino acids: phenylalanine and aspartic acid.


===Tetrahydrobiopterin-deficient hyperphenylalaninemia===
Supplementary infant formulas are used in these patients to provide the amino acids and other necessary nutrients that would otherwise be lacking in a low phenylalanine diet. These can continue in other forms as the child grows up such as pills, formulas, and specially formulated foods. (Since phenylalanine is necessary for the synthesis of many proteins, it is required but levels must be strictly controlled). In addition, tyrosine, which is normally derived from phenylalanine, must be supplemented.)
{{Main|Tetrahydrobiopterin deficiency}}


A rarer form of hyperphenylalaninemia is [[tetrahydrobiopterin deficiency]], which occurs when the PAH enzyme is normal, and a defect is found in the biosynthesis or recycling of the [[Cofactor (biochemistry)|cofactor]] [[tetrahydrobiopterin]] (BH<sub>4</sub>).<ref>{{Cite journal |vauthors=Surtees R, Blau N |year=2000 |title=The neurochemistry of phenylketonuria |journal=European Journal of Pediatrics |volume=169 |pages=S109–S113 |doi=10.1007/PL00014370 |pmid=11043156 |s2cid=26196359}}</ref> BH<sub>4</sub> is necessary for proper activity of the enzyme PAH, and this [[coenzyme]] can be supplemented as treatment. Those with this form of hyperphenylalaninemia may have a deficiency of tyrosine (which is created from phenylalanine by PAH), in which case treatment is supplementation of tyrosine to account for this deficiency.{{citation needed|date=September 2020}}
The oral administration of [[tetrahydrobiopterin]] (a [[cofactor (biochemistry)|cofactor]] in the [[redox|oxidation]] of phenylalanine) can reduce [[blood]] levels of the amino acid in certain patients.<ref>{{cite journal | url = http://www.nature.com/nrd/journal/v7/n3/full/nrd2540.html | title = Fresh from the Pipeline: Sapropterin | volume = 7 | pages = 199–200 | last = Burton | first = BK | coauthors = Kar S, Kirkpatrick P | journal = Nature Reviews Drug Discovery | year = 2008 | doi = 10.1038/nrd2540 }}</ref><ref name="pmid18230057">{{cite journal |author=Michals-Matalon K |title=Sapropterin dihydrochloride, 6-R-L-erythro-5,6,7,8-tetrahydrobiopterin, in the treatment of phenylketonuria |journal=Expert Opin Investig Drugs |volume=17 |issue=2 |pages=245–51 |year=2008 |pmid=18230057 |doi=10.1517/13543784.17.2.245}}</ref> The company [[BioMarin Pharmaceutical]] has produced a tablet preparation of the compound sapropterin (Kuvan),which is a form of tetrahydrobiopterin. Kuvan is the first drug that can help BH4-responsive PKU patients (defined among clinicians as 1/4 to 1/2 of the PKU population) keep their phenylalanine levels low<ref>{{cite journal | author=Burton BK, Grange DK, Milanowski A, Vockley G, Feillet F, Crombez EA et al | year=2007 | url=http://www.nature.com/nrd/journal/v7/n3/full/nrd2540.html | title=The response of patients with phenylketonuria and elevated serum phenylalanine to treatment with oral sapropterin dihydrochloride (6R-tetrahydrobiopterin): a phase II, multicentre, open-label, screening study | journal=Journal of Inherited Metabolic Disorders | volume=30 | pages=700-707 | pmid=17846916| doi=10.1007/s10545-007-0605-z}}</ref> PKU patients who respond to Kuvan (20-56% of those who try it) may also be able to increase the amount of protein they can safely eat.<ref>{{cite journal | author=Levy H, Burton B, Cederbaum S, et al | year=2007 | title= Recommendations for evaluation of responsiveness to tetrahydrobiopterin (BH(4)) in phenylketonuria and its use in treatment | journal= Mol Genet Metab |volume=92 |issue=4 | pages=287-291 | pmid=18036498 | doi=10.1016/j.ymgme.2007.09.017 }}</ref> After extensive clinical trials, Kuvan has been approved by the FDA for use in PKU therapy. Researchers and clinicians working with PKU are finding Kuvan a safe and effective addition to dietary treatment and beneficial in increasing quality of life for their patients.<ref>{{cite journal |author=Levy HL, Milanowski A, Chakrapani A, Cleary M, Lee P, Trefz FK''et al'' |title= Efficacy of sapropterin dihydrochloride (tetrahydrobiopterin, 6R-BH4) for reduction of phenylalanine concentration in patients with phenylketonuria: a phase III randomised placebo-controlled study. | journal=Lancet | volume=370 |pages=504-510 |year=2007 | pmid=17693179}}</ref><ref>{{cite journal |author=Lee P, Treacy E, Crombez E, ''et al'' |title= Safety and efficacy of 22 weeks of treatment with sapropterin dihydrochloride in patients with phenylketonuria | journal= Am J Med Genet | volume=146A | issue = 22 | pages=2851-2859 | year=2008 | pmid=18932221 | doi:10.1002/ajmg.a.32562}}</ref> Some concerns have been expressed over Kuvan's safety, cost, and the potential for PKU sufferers to override the benefits of the drug. <ref>{{cite news | url = http://www.nytimes.com/2007/12/14/health/14genetic.html?adxnnl=1&ref=us&adxnnlx=1207246157-x4BfrBsi1FBh9a8XYN40ig | title = Agency Approves Drug to Treat Genetic Disorder That Can Lead to Retardation | last = Pollack | first = A | date = 2007-12-14 | accessdate = 2008-04-03 | publisher = [[The New York Times]] }}</ref>


Levels of [[dopamine]] can be used to distinguish between these two types. [[Tetrahydrobiopterin]] is required to convert Phe to Tyr and is required to convert Tyr to [[L-DOPA]] via the enzyme [[tyrosine hydroxylase]]. L-DOPA, in turn, is converted to [[dopamine]]. Low levels of dopamine lead to high levels of [[prolactin]]. By contrast, in classical PKU (without dihydrobiopterin involvement), prolactin levels would be relatively normal.<ref>{{Cite journal |last=Opladen |first=Thomas |last2=López-Laso |first2=Eduardo |date=26 May 2020 |title=Consensus guideline for the diagnosis and treatment of tetrahydrobiopterin (BH4) deficiencies |journal=Orphanet Journal of Rare Diseases |volume=15 |issue=1 |page=126 |doi=10.1186/s13023-020-01379-8 |pmc=7251883 |pmid=32456656 |doi-access=free}}</ref>{{citation needed|date=September 2020}}
There are a number of other therapies currently under investigation, including [[gene therapy]], and an injectable form of PAH. Previously, PKU-affected people were allowed to go off diet after approximately 8, then 18 years of age. However, most physicians now agree that this special diet should be followed throughout life.


As of 2020, tetrahydrobiopterin deficiency was known to result from defects in five genes.<ref name="pmid32456656">{{Cite journal |vauthors=Opladen T, López-Laso E, Cortès-Saladelafont E, Pearson TS, Sivri HS, Yildiz Y, Assmann B, Kurian MA, Leuzzi V, Heales S, Pope S, Porta F, García-Cazorla A, Honzík T, Pons R, Regal L, Goez H, Artuch R, Hoffmann GF, Horvath G, Thöny B, Scholl-Bürgi S, Burlina A, Verbeek MM, Mastrangelo M, Friedman J, Wassenberg T, Jeltsch K, Kulhánek J, Kuseyri Hübschmann O |date=May 2020 |title=Consensus guideline for the diagnosis and treatment of tetrahydrobiopterin (BH4) deficiencies |journal=Orphanet Journal of Rare Diseases |volume=15 |issue=1 |pages=126 |doi=10.1186/s13023-020-01379-8 |pmc=7251883 |pmid=32456656 |doi-access=free}}</ref>
==Maternal phenylketonuria==
[[Image:autorecessive.svg|thumb|250px|Phenylketonuria is inherited in an [[Dominance (genetics)|autosomal recessive]] fashion]]
For women affected with PKU, it is essential for the health of their child to maintain low phenylalanine levels before and during pregnancy.<ref>{{cite journal | author=Lee, P.J., Ridout, D., Walker, J.H., Cockburn, F., | title=Maternal phenylketonuria: report from the United Kingdom Registry 1978–97 | journal=Archives of Disease in Childhood | volume=90 | pages=143–146 | year=2005 | pmid=15665165 | doi = 10.1136/adc.2003.037762 <!--Retrieved from CrossRef by DOI bot-->}}.</ref> Though the developing fetus may only be a carrier of the PKU gene, the intrauterine environment can have very high levels of phenylalanine, which can cross the placenta. The result is that the child may develop congenital heart disease, growth retardation, microcephaly and mental retardation.<ref>{{cite journal | author=Rouse, B., Azen, B., Koch, R., Matalon, R., Hanley, W., de la Cruz, F., Trefz, F., Friedman, E., Shifrin, H. | title=Maternal phenylketonuria collaborative study (MPKUCS) offspring: Facial anomalies, malformations, and early neurological sequelae. | journal=American Journal of Medical Genetics | year=1997 | volume=69 | issue=1 | pages= 89–95 | pmid=9066890 | doi = 10.1002/(SICI)1096-8628(19970303)69:1<89::AID-AJMG17>3.0.CO;2-K}}</ref> PKU-affected women themselves are not at risk from additional complications during pregnancy.


===Metabolic pathways===
In most countries, women with PKU who wish to have children are advised to lower their blood phenylalanine levels before they become pregnant and carefully control their phenylalanine levels throughout the pregnancy. This is achieved by performing regular blood tests and adhering very strictly to a diet, generally monitored on a day-to-day basis by a specialist metabolic dietitian. When low phenylalanine levels are maintained for the duration of pregnancy there are no elevated levels of risk of birth defects compared with a baby born to a non-PKU mother.<ref name="web">[http://www.medschool.lsuhsc.edu/genetics_center/louisiana/article_pregnancy_PKU.htm lsuhsc.edu] Genetics and Louisiana Families</ref>
Babies with PKU may drink breast milk, while also taking their special metabolic formula. Some research has indicated that an exclusive diet of breast milk for PKU babies may alter the effects of the deficiency, though during breastfeeding the mother must maintain a strict diet to keep their phenylalanine levels low. More research is needed.


[[File:Inborn errors of metabolism of phenylalanine and tyrosine.svg|800px|centre|thumb|Pathophysiology of phenylketonuria, which is due to the absence of functional phenylalanine hydroxylase (classical subtype) or functional enzymes for the recycling of [[tetrahydrobiopterin]] (new variant subtype) utilized in the first step of the metabolic pathway.]]
==Incidence==
The [[incidence (epidemiology)|incidence]] of PKU is about 1 in 15,000 births, but the incidence varies widely in different human populations from 1 in 4,500 births among the population of [[Ireland]]<ref>{{cite journal | author=DiLella, A. G., Kwok, S. C. M., Ledley, F. D., Marvit, J., Woo, S. L. C. | year=1986 | title=Molecular structure and polymorphic map of the human phenylalanine hydroxylase gene | journal=Biochemistry | volume=25 | pages=743–749 | pmid=3008810 | doi = 10.1021/bi00352a001 <!--Retrieved from CrossRef by DOI bot-->}}</ref> to fewer than one in 100,000 births among the population of [[Finland]].<ref>{{cite journal | author=Guldberg, P., Henriksen, K. F., Sipila, I., Guttler, F., de la Chapelle, A. | year=1995 | title=Phenylketonuria in a low incidence population: molecular characterization of mutations in Finland | journal=J. Med. Genet | volume=32 | pages=976–978 | pmid=8825928}}</ref>


The enzyme [[phenylalanine hydroxylase]] normally converts the [[amino acid]] [[phenylalanine]] into the amino acid [[tyrosine]]. If this reaction does not take place, phenylalanine accumulates and tyrosine is deficient. Excessive phenylalanine can be metabolized into phenylketones through the minor route, a [[transaminase]] pathway with [[glutamic acid|glutamate]]. Metabolites include [[phenylacetic acid|phenylacetate]], [[phenylpyruvate]] and [[phenethylamine]].<ref>{{Cite journal |vauthors=Michals K, Matalon R |year=1985 |title=Phenylalanine metabolites, attention span and hyperactivity |journal=American Journal of Clinical Nutrition |volume=42 |issue=2 |pages=361–5 |doi=10.1093/ajcn/42.2.361 |pmid=4025205}}</ref> Elevated levels of phenylalanine in the blood and detection of phenylketones in the urine is diagnostic, however most patients are diagnosed via newborn screening.{{citation needed|date=October 2021}}<ref>{{Cite web |title=Phenylketonuria (PKU) - Diagnosis |url=https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/phenylketonuria/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20376308 |access-date=18 July 2024 |website=Mayo Clinic}}</ref>
==In relationships==

It was discovered in 2007 that those with this disorder will discharge a concentrated amount of phenylalanine in breast milk and semen.{{Fact|date=January 2009}} If these bodily fluids are transferred between two individual phenylketonurics, there is a significant health risk to the receiving partner. The risk, however, has been determined to be statistically insignificant (for each exchange of bodily fluid, the risk is 1 in 15,000 squared, or, 1 in 225,000,000.) Since there have been no reported cases, the risk is theoretical. It was noted, however, that since the rise of the internet, people coping with this disorder have sought each other out, so the increased social interaction may become a cause for concern.{{Fact|date=January 2009}}
==Screening==
[[Image:Phenylketonuria testing.jpg|right|thumb|Blood is taken from a two-week-old baby to test for phenylketonuria]]
PKU is commonly included in the [[newborn screening]] panel of many countries, with varied detection techniques. Most babies born in Europe, North America, and Australia are screened for PKU soon after birth.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Mayo Clinic Staff |date=2007-12-20 |title=Phenylketonuria (PKU) |url=http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/phenylketonuria/DS00514/DSECTION=1 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080317011112/http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/phenylketonuria/DS00514/DSECTION%3D1 |archive-date=2008-03-17 |access-date=2008-03-13 |publisher=[[Mayo Clinic]]}}</ref><ref name=":1">{{Cite book |last=Longo |first=Nicola |title=Harrison's Principles of Internal Medicine |publisher=McGraw Hill |year=2022 |edition=21st |location=New York |chapter=Chapter 420: Inherited Disorders of Amino Acid Metabolism in Adults}}</ref> Screening for PKU is done with bacterial inhibition assay ([[Guthrie test]]), immunoassays using fluorometric or photometric detection, or amino acid measurement using [[tandem mass spectrometry]] (MS/MS). Measurements done using MS/MS determine the concentration of Phe and the ratio of Phe to [[tyrosine]], the ratio will be elevated in PKU.<ref name="sarafaglou">{{Cite book |title=Pediatric Endocrinology and Inborn Errors of Metabolism |publisher=McGraw Hill Medical |editor-last=Sarafoglou |editor-first=Kyriakie |location=New York |page=26 |editor-last2=Hoffmann |editor-first2=Georg F. |editor-last3=Roth |editor-first3=Karl S.}}</ref>

==Treatment==
PKU is not curable. However, if it is diagnosed early enough, an affected newborn can grow up with normal brain development by managing and controlling phenylalanine ("Phe") levels through diet, or a combination of diet and medication.<ref>{{Cite journal |last=Widaman |first=Keith F. |date=2009-02-01 |title=Phenylketonuria in Children and Mothers: Genes, Environments, Behavior |journal=Current Directions in Psychological Science |volume=18 |issue=1 |pages=48–52 |doi=10.1111/j.1467-8721.2009.01604.x |issn=0963-7214 |pmc=2705125 |pmid=20126294}}</ref> If dietary treatment is not initiated within 2 weeks after birth, the child is likely to develop permanent intellectual disability, even if dietary interventions begin shortly thereafter.<ref name=":1" />

===Diet===
People who follow the prescribed dietary treatment from birth may (but not always) have no symptoms. Their PKU would be detectable only by a blood test. People must adhere to a special diet low in Phe for optimal brain development. Since Phe is necessary for the synthesis of many proteins, it is required for appropriate growth, but levels must be strictly controlled.<ref name=":1" />

<!-- For people who do not have phenylketonuria, the U.S. Institute of Medicine set recommended at least 33&nbsp;mg/kg body weight/day phenylalanine plus tyrosine for adults 19 years and older.<ref name="DRItext">{{Cite book |last=Institute of Medicine |author-link=Institute of Medicine |title=Dietary Reference Intakes for Energy, Carbohydrates, Fiber, Fat, Fatty Acids, Cholesterol, Protein, and Amino Acids |publisher=The National Academies Press |year=2002 |isbn=978-0-309-08525-0 |location=Washington, DC |pages=589–768 |chapter=Protein and Amino Acids |doi=10.17226/10490 |chapter-url=https://www.nap.edu/read/10490/chapter/12}}</ref> For people with PKU, a recommendation for children up to age 10 years is 200 to 500&nbsp;mg/d; for older children and adults below 600 &nbsp;mg/day . Where in the range depends on body weight and age, and on monitoring blood concentration.<ref>{{Cite journal |vauthors=Macleod EL, Ney DM |year=2010 |title=Nutritional Management of Phenylketonuria |journal=Annales Nestlé (English Ed.) |volume=68 |issue=2 |pages=58–69 |doi=10.1159/000312813 |pmc=2901905 |pmid=22475869}}</ref> -->[[File:Phenylalanine warning for phenylketonurics.jpg|thumb|Warning for people with phenylketonuria on a label for an aspartame-containing drink]]
[[Optimal health ranges]] (or "target ranges") are between 120 and 360 [[molar concentration|μmol/L]] or equivalently 2 to 6&nbsp;mg/dL. This is optimally to be achieved during at least the first 10 years,<ref>[https://books.google.com/books?id=BkVtT9ZyyJsC&pg=PA255 Chapter 55, page 255] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160511032418/https://books.google.com/books?id=BkVtT9ZyyJsC&pg=PA255 |date=2016-05-11 }} in:{{Cite book |last=Behrman, Richard E. |title=Nelson essentials of pediatrics |last2=Kliegman, Robert |last3=Nelson, Waldo E. |last4=Karen Marcdante |last5=Jenson, Hal B. |publisher=Elsevier/Saunders |year=2006 |isbn=978-1-4160-0159-1}}</ref> to allow the brain to develop normally.{{Citation needed|date=September 2024}}

The diet requires restricting or eliminating foods high in Phe, such as [[soybeans]], [[egg white]]s, [[shrimp]], [[chicken breast]], [[spirulina (dietary supplement)|spirulina]], [[watercress]], [[fish as food|fish]], [[nut (fruit)|nuts]], [[crayfish]], [[lobster]], [[tuna]], [[turkey as food|turkey]], [[legume]]s, and lowfat [[cottage cheese]].<ref>{{Cite web |title=Foods highest in Phenylalanine |url=http://nutritiondata.self.com/foods-000086000000000000000-1.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150505003259/http://nutritiondata.self.com/foods-000086000000000000000-1.html |archive-date=2015-05-05 |website=self.com}}</ref> Starchy foods, such as [[potato]]es and [[maize|corn]] are generally acceptable in controlled amounts, but the quantity of Phe consumed from these foods must be monitored. A corn-free diet may be prescribed in some cases. A food diary is usually kept to record the amount of Phe consumed with each meal, snack, or drink. An "exchange" system can be used to calculate the amount of Phe in a portion of food from the protein content identified on a nutritional information label. Lower-protein "medical food" substitutes are often used in place of normal [[bread]], [[pasta]], and other grain-based foods, which contain a significant amount of Phe. Many fruits and vegetables are lower in Phe and can be eaten in larger quantities. Infants may still be breastfed to provide all of the benefits of breastmilk, but the quantity must also be monitored and supplementation for missing nutrients will be required. The sweetener [[aspartame]], present in many diet foods and soft drinks, must also be avoided, as aspartame contains phenylalanine.<ref name="cfr">{{Cite web |date=1 April 2018 |title=CFR – Code of Federal Regulations, Title 21, Part 172: Food additives permitted for direct addition to food for human consumption. Subpart I – Multipurpose Additives; Sec. 172.804 Aspartame |url=https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/scripts/cdrh/cfdocs/cfcfr/CFRSearch.cfm?fr=172.804 |access-date=22 August 2019 |publisher=US Food and Drug Administration}}</ref>

The amino acid [[tyrosine]] becomes [[Essential amino acid|essential]] in people with phenylalanine hydroxylase deficiency. Thus, in addition to the careful ''reduction'' of Phe in the diet, Tyr must be ''supplemented'' to ensure that nutritional needs are met.<ref name=":1" />

Different people can tolerate different amounts of Phe in their diet. Regular blood tests are used to determine the effects of dietary Phe intake on blood Phe level.{{Citation needed|date=February 2024}}

===Nutritional supplements===
Supplementary "protein substitute" formulas are typically prescribed for people PKU (starting in infancy) to provide the amino acids and other necessary nutrients that would otherwise be lacking in a low-phenylalanine diet. Tyrosine, which is normally derived from phenylalanine and which is necessary for normal brain function, is usually supplemented. Consumption of the protein substitute formulas can actually reduce phenylalanine levels, probably because it stops the process of protein [[catabolism]] from releasing Phe stored in the muscles and other tissues into the blood. Many PKU patients have their highest Phe levels after a period of fasting (such as overnight) because fasting triggers catabolism.<ref>{{Cite journal |vauthors=MacDonald A, Rylance GW, Asplin D, Hall SK, Booth IW |year=1998 |title=Does a single plasma phenylalanine predict the quality of control in phenylketonuria? |journal=Archives of Disease in Childhood |volume=78 |issue=2 |pages=122–6 |doi=10.1136/adc.78.2.122 |pmc=1717471 |pmid=9579152}}</ref> A diet that is low in phenylalanine but does not include protein substitutes may also fail to lower blood Phe levels, since a nutritionally insufficient diet may also trigger catabolism. For all these reasons, the prescription formula is an important part of the treatment for patients with classic PKU.{{citation needed|date=September 2020}}

Evidence supports dietary supplementation with large neutral amino acids (LNAAs).<ref>{{Cite journal |vauthors=van Spronsen FJ, de Groot MJ, Hoeksma M, Reijngoud DJ, van Rijn M |date=December 2010 |title=Large neutral amino acids in the treatment of PKU: from theory to practice |journal=Journal of Inherited Metabolic Disease |volume=33 |issue=6 |pages=671–6 |doi=10.1007/s10545-010-9216-1 |pmc=2992655 |pmid=20976625}}</ref> The LNAAs (e.g. [[Leucine|leu]], [[Tyrosine|tyr]], [[Tryptophan|trp]], [[Methionine|met]], [[Histidine|his]], [[Isoleucine|ile]], [[Valine|val]], [[Threonine|thr]]) may compete with phe for specific carrier proteins that transport LNAAs across the intestinal mucosa into the blood and across the [[blood–brain barrier]] into the brain. Its use is limited in the US due to the cost but is available in most countries as part of a low protein / PHE diet to replace missing nutrients.{{Citation needed|date=September 2024}}

Another treatment strategy is casein glycomacropeptide (CGMP), which is a milk peptide naturally free of Phe in its pure form<ref name="pmid15051860">{{Cite journal |last=Etzel MR |date=Apr 2004 |title=Manufacture and use of dairy protein fractions. |journal=The Journal of Nutrition |volume=134 |issue=4 |pages=996S–1002S |doi=10.1093/jn/134.4.996S |pmid=15051860 |doi-access=free}}</ref> CGMP can substitute for the main part of the free amino acids in the PKU diet and provides several beneficial nutritional effects compared to free amino acids. The fact that CGMP is a peptide ensures that the absorption rate of its amino acids is prolonged compared to free amino acids and thereby results in improved protein retention<ref name="pmid19244369">{{Cite journal |vauthors=van Calcar SC, MacLeod EL, Gleason ST, Etzel MR, Clayton MK, Wolff JA, Ney DM |date=Apr 2009 |title=Improved nutritional management of phenylketonuria by using a diet containing glycomacropeptide compared with amino acids. |journal=The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition |volume=89 |issue=4 |pages=1068–77 |doi=10.3945/ajcn.2008.27280 |pmc=2667457 |pmid=19244369}}</ref> and increased satiety<ref name="pmid20466571">{{Cite journal |vauthors=MacLeod EL, Clayton MK, van Calcar SC, Ney DM |date=August 2010 |title=Breakfast with glycomacropeptide compared with amino acids suppresses plasma ghrelin levels in individuals with phenylketonuria. |journal=Molecular Genetics and Metabolism |volume=100 |issue=4 |pages=303–8 |doi=10.1016/j.ymgme.2010.04.003 |pmc=2906609 |pmid=20466571}}</ref> compared to free amino acids. Another important benefit of CGMP is that the taste is significantly improved<ref name="pmid19244369" /> when CGMP substitutes part of the free amino acids and this may help ensure improved compliance to the PKU diet.{{Citation needed|date=September 2024}}

Furthermore, CGMP contains a high amount of the Phe-lowering LNAAs, which constitutes about 41 g per 100 g protein<ref name="pmid15051860" /> and will therefore help maintain plasma Phe levels in the target range.

===Enzyme substitutes===
In 2018, the FDA approved an enzyme substitute called [[pegvaliase]] which metabolizes phenylalanine.<ref name="FDA2018Sub">{{Cite web |title=Press Announcements - FDA approves a new treatment for PKU, a rare and serious genetic disease |url=https://www.fda.gov/NewsEvents/Newsroom/PressAnnouncements/ucm608835.htm |access-date=9 December 2018 |website=www.fda.gov |language=en}}</ref> It is for adults who are poorly managed on other treatments.<ref name=FDA2018Sub/>

[[Tetrahydrobiopterin]] (BH4) (a cofactor for the [[oxidation]] of phenylalanine) when taken by mouth can reduce [[blood]] levels of this amino acid in some people.<ref>{{Cite journal |last=Burton |first=Barbara K. |last2=Kar |first2=Santwana |last3=Kirkpatrick |first3=Peter |year=2008 |title=Sapropterin |journal=Nature Reviews Drug Discovery |volume=7 |issue=3 |pages=199–200 |doi=10.1038/nrd2540 |s2cid=263991793}}</ref><ref name="pmid18230057">{{Cite journal |vauthors=Michals-Matalon K |date=February 2008 |title=Sapropterin dihydrochloride, 6-R-L-erythro-5,6,7,8-tetrahydrobiopterin, in the treatment of phenylketonuria |journal=Expert Opinion on Investigational Drugs |volume=17 |issue=2 |pages=245–51 |doi=10.1517/13543784.17.2.245 |pmid=18230057 |s2cid=207475494}}</ref>

===Mothers===
For women with PKU, it is important for the health of their children to maintain low Phe levels before and during pregnancy.<ref>{{Cite journal |vauthors=Lee PJ, Ridout D, Walter JH, Cockburn F |year=2005 |title=Maternal phenylketonuria: report from the United Kingdom Registry 1978–97 |journal=Archives of Disease in Childhood |volume=90 |issue=2 |pages=143–146 |doi=10.1136/adc.2003.037762 |pmc=1720245 |pmid=15665165}}</ref> Though the developing fetus may only be a carrier of the PKU gene, the intrauterine environment can have very high levels of phenylalanine, which can cross the placenta. The child may develop congenital heart disease, growth retardation, microcephaly and intellectual disability as a result.<ref>{{Cite journal |vauthors=Rouse B, Azen C, Koch R, Matalon R, Hanley W, de la Cruz F, Trefz F, Friedman E, Shifrin H |year=1997 |title=Maternal phenylketonuria collaborative study (MPKUCS) offspring: Facial anomalies, malformations, and early neurological sequelae |journal=American Journal of Medical Genetics |volume=69 |issue=1 |pages=89–95 |doi=10.1002/(SICI)1096-8628(19970303)69:1<89::AID-AJMG17>3.0.CO;2-K |pmid=9066890}}</ref> PKU-affected women themselves are not at risk of additional complications during pregnancy.{{citation needed|date=September 2020}}

In most countries, women with PKU who wish to have children are advised to lower their blood Phe levels (typically to between 2 and 6&nbsp;mg/dL) before they become pregnant, and carefully control their levels throughout the pregnancy. This is achieved by performing regular blood tests and adhering very strictly to a diet, in general monitored on a day-to-day basis by a specialist metabolic dietitian. In many cases, as the fetus' liver begins to develop and produce PAH normally, the mother's blood Phe levels will drop, requiring an increased intake to remain within the safe range of 2–6&nbsp;mg/dL. The mother's daily Phe intake may double or even triple by the end of the pregnancy, as a result. When maternal blood Phe levels fall below 2&nbsp;mg/dL, anecdotal reports indicate that the mothers may experience adverse effects, including headaches, nausea, hair loss, and general malaise. When low phenylalanine levels are maintained for the duration of pregnancy, there are no elevated levels of risk of birth defects compared with a baby born to a non-PKU mother.<ref name="web">[http://www.medschool.lsuhsc.edu/genetics_center/louisiana/article_pregnancy_PKU.htm lsuhsc.edu] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080408095930/http://www.medschool.lsuhsc.edu/genetics_center/louisiana/article_pregnancy_PKU.htm |date=2008-04-08 }} Genetics and Louisiana Families</ref>

==Epidemiology==
{| class="wikitable sortable" style = "float: right; margin-left:15px; text-align:center"
|-
! scope="col" style="background:#efefef;" | Country
! scope="col" style="background:#efefef;" | Incidence
|-
|[[Australia]]
|1 in 10,000<ref name="pmid18566668" />
|-
|[[Brazil]]
|1 in 8,690
|-
|[[Canada]]
|1 in 22,000<ref name="pmid18566668" />
|-
|[[China]]
| 1 in 17,000<ref name="pmid18566668">{{Cite journal |vauthors=Williams RA, Mamotte CD, Burnett JR |date=February 2008 |title=Phenylketonuria: an inborn error of phenylalanine metabolism |journal=The Clinical Biochemist. Reviews |volume=29 |issue=1 |pages=31–41 |pmc=2423317 |pmid=18566668}}</ref>
|-
|[[Czechoslovakia]]
|1 in 7,000<ref name="pmid18566668" />
|-
|[[Denmark]]
|1 in 12,000<ref name="pmid18566668" />
|-
|[[Finland]]
| 1 in 200,000<ref name="pmid18566668" />
|-
|[[France]]
|1 in 13,500<ref name="pmid18566668" />
|-
|[[India]]
|1 in 18,300
|-
|[[Ireland]]
| 1 in 4,500<ref>{{Cite journal |vauthors=DiLella AG, Kwok SC, Ledley FD, Marvit J, Woo SL |year=1986 |title=Molecular structure and polymorphic map of the human phenylalanine hydroxylase gene |journal=Biochemistry |volume=25 |issue=4 |pages=743–749 |doi=10.1021/bi00352a001 |pmid=3008810}}</ref>
|-
|[[Italy]]
|1 in 17,000<ref name="pmid18566668" />
|-
|[[Japan]]
|1 in 125,000<ref name="pmid18566668" />
|-
|[[South Korea|Korea]]
|1 in 41,000<ref>{{Cite journal |vauthors=Lee DH, Koo SK, Lee KS, Yeon YJ, Oh HJ, Kim SW, Lee SJ, Kim SS, Lee JE, Jo I, Jung SC |year=2004 |title=The molecular basis of phenylketonuria in Koreans |journal=Journal of Human Genetics |volume=49 |issue=1 |pages=617–621 |doi=10.1007/s10038-004-0197-5 |pmid=15503242 |s2cid=21446773 |doi-access=free}}</ref>
|-
|[[Netherlands]]
|1 in 18,000<ref name=":0">{{Cite web |title=PKU: Closing the Gaps in Care |url=https://www.espku.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/PKU_report_FINAL_v2_nomarks.pdf |access-date=Aug 28, 2020}}</ref>
|-
|[[Norway]]
|1 in 14,500<ref name="pmid18566668" />
|-
|[[Philippines]]
|1 in 102,000<ref>{{Cite web |title=Philippine Society for Orphan Disorders – Current Registry |url=http://www.psod.org.ph/rare-diseases/current-registry/ |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150104042504/http://www.psod.org.ph/rare-diseases/current-registry/ |archive-date=2015-01-04 |website=psod.org.ph}}</ref>
|-
|[[Poland]]
|1 in 8,000<ref name=":0" />
|-
|[[Scotland]]
|1 in 5,300<ref name="pmid18566668" />
|-
|[[Spain]]
|1 in 20,000<ref name=":0" />
|-
|[[Sweden]]
|1 in 20,000<ref name=":0" />
|-
|[[Turkey]]
|1 in 2,600<ref name="pmid18566668" />
|-
|[[United Kingdom]]
|1 in 10,000<ref name=":0" />
|-
|[[United States]]
|1 in 25,000<ref name="medscape947781">{{EMedicine|article|947781|Phenylketonuria}}</ref>
|}

The average number of new cases of PKU varies in different human populations. United States Caucasians are affected at a rate of 1 in 10,000.<ref>{{Cite journal |last=Bickel, H. |last2=Bachmann, C. |last3=Beckers, R. |last4=Brandt, N.J. |last5=Clayton, B.E. |last6=Corrado, G |display-authors=etal |year=1981 |title=Neonatal mass screening for metabolic disorders |url=https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/BF00441305 |journal=European Journal of Pediatrics |volume=137 |pages=133–139 |doi=10.1007/BF00441305 |s2cid=44705699 |number=137}}</ref> Turkey has the highest documented rate in the world, with 1 in 2,600 births, while countries such as Finland and Japan have extremely low rates with fewer than one case of PKU in 100,000 births. A 1987 study from Slovakia reports a [[Romani people|Roma]] population with an extremely high incidence of PKU (one case in 40 births) due to extensive inbreeding.<ref>{{Cite journal |vauthors=Ferák V, Siváková D, Sieglová Z |year=1987 |title=Slovenskí Cigáni (Rómovia) – populácia s najvyšším koeficientom inbrídingu v Európe. |journal=Bratislavské Lekárske Listy |volume=87 |pages=168–175 |number=2}}</ref> It is the most common amino acid metabolic problem in the United Kingdom.{{citation needed|date=May 2015}}

==History==

Before the causes of PKU were understood, PKU caused severe disability in most people who inherited the relevant mutations. Nobel and Pulitzer Prize winning author [[Pearl S. Buck]] had a daughter named Carol who lived with PKU before treatment was available, and wrote an account of its effects in a book called ''The Child Who Never Grew.''<ref>{{Cite journal |vauthors=Borg C, Mondot S, Mestre M, Cavero I |date=November 1991 |title=Nicorandil: differential contribution of K+ channel opening and guanylate cyclase stimulation to its vasorelaxant effects on various endothelin-1-contracted arterial preparations. Comparison to aprikalim (RP 52891) and nitroglycerin |journal=The Journal of Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics |volume=259 |issue=2 |pages=526–34 |pmid=1682478}}</ref> Many untreated PKU patients born before widespread newborn screening are still alive, largely in dependent living homes/institutions.<ref>{{Cite web |title=NPKUA > Education > About PKU |url=http://www.npkua.org/Education/AboutPKU.aspx |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150101143758/http://www.npkua.org/Education/AboutPKU.aspx |archive-date=2015-01-01 |website=npkua.org}}</ref>

Phenylketonuria was discovered by the [[Norwegian people|Norwegian]] physician [[Ivar Asbjørn Følling]] in 1934<ref name="Følling">{{Cite journal |last=Følling |first=Asbjørn |date=1 January 1934 |title=Über Ausscheidung von Phenylbrenztraubensäure in den Harn als Stoffwechselanomalie in Verbindung mit Imbezillität. |journal=Hoppe-Seyler's Zeitschrift für Physiologische Chemie |volume=227 |issue=1–4 |pages=169–181 |doi=10.1515/bchm2.1934.227.1-4.169}}</ref> when he noticed hyperphenylalaninemia (HPA) was associated with intellectual disability. In Norway, this disorder is known as Følling's disease, named after its discoverer.<ref>{{Cite journal |vauthors=Centerwall SA, Centerwall WR |year=2000 |title=The discovery of phenylketonuria: the story of a young couple, two affected children, and a scientist |journal=Pediatrics |volume=105 |issue=1 Pt 1 |pages=89–103 |doi=10.1542/peds.105.1.89 |pmid=10617710 |s2cid=35922780}}</ref> Følling was one of the first physicians to apply detailed chemical analysis to the study of disease.{{Citation needed|date=September 2024}}

In 1934 at [[Rikshospitalet]], Følling saw a young woman named Borgny Egeland. She had two children, Liv and Dag, who had been normal at birth but subsequently developed intellectual disability. When Dag was about a year old, the mother noticed a strong smell to his urine. Følling obtained urine samples from the children and, after many tests, he found that the substance causing the odor in the urine was phenylpyruvic acid. The children, he concluded, had excess phenylpyruvic acid in the urine, the condition which came to be called phenylketonuria (PKU).<ref name="Gonzalez, Jason; Willis, Monte S. 118–119" />

His analysis of the urine of the two affected siblings led him to request many physicians near Oslo to test the urine of other affected patients. This led to the discovery of the same substance he had found in eight other patients. He conducted tests and found reactions that gave rise to [[benzaldehyde]] and [[benzoic acid]], which led him to conclude that the compound contained a [[benzene]] ring. Further testing showed the [[melting point]] to be the same as [[phenylpyruvic acid]], which indicated that the substance was in the urine.<ref>{{Cite journal |last=Williams |first=RA |last2=Mamotte |first2=CD |last3=Burnett |first3=JR |date=2008 |title=Phenylketonuria: an inborn error of phenylalanine metabolism |journal=[[The Clinical Biochemist Reviews]] |volume=29 |issue=1 |pages=31–41 |pmc=2423317 |pmid=18566668 |quote=Mild oxidation of the purified substance produced a compound which smelled of benzoic acid, leading Følling to postulate that the compound was phenylpyruvic acid.3 There was no change in the melting point upon mixing of the unknown compound with phenylpyruvic acid thus confirming the mystery compound was indeed phenylpyruvic acid.}}</ref>

In 1954, [[Horst Bickel]], [[Evelyn Hickmans]] and John Gerrard published a paper that described how they created a diet that was low in [[phenylalanine]] and the patient recovered. Bickel, Gerrard and Hickmans were awarded the [[John Scott Medal]] in 1962 for their discovery.<ref name="CWTL">{{Citation |last=Marelene Rayner-Canham, Geoff Rayner-Canham |title=Evelyn Hickmans |work=Chemistry was Their Life: Pioneer British Women Chemists, 1880–1949 |pages=198 |year=2008 |publisher=World Scientific |isbn=9781908978998}}</ref>

PKU was the first disorder to be routinely diagnosed through widespread [[newborn screening]]. [[Robert Guthrie (microbiologist)|Robert Guthrie]] introduced the newborn screening test for PKU in the early 1960s.<ref name="pkureview">{{Cite journal |vauthors=Mitchell JJ, Trakadis YJ, Scriver CR |year=2011 |title=Phenylalanine hydroxylase deficiency |journal=Genetics in Medicine |volume=13 |issue=8 |pages=697–707 |doi=10.1097/GIM.0b013e3182141b48 |pmid=21555948 |s2cid=25921607 |doi-access=free}}</ref> With the knowledge that PKU could be detected before symptoms were evident, and treatment initiated, screening was quickly adopted around the world. Ireland was the first country to introduce a national screening programme in February 1966,<ref>{{Cite book |last=Koch |first=Jean |title=Robert Guthrie--the PKU story : crusade against mental retardation |date=1997 |publisher=Hope Pub. House |isbn=0932727913 |location=Pasadena, Calif. |pages=65–66 |oclc=36352725}}</ref> Austria also started screening in 1966<ref name="austriascreening">{{Cite journal |vauthors=Kasper DC, Ratschmann R, Metz TF, Mechtler TP, Möslinger D, Konstantopoulou V, Item CB, Pollak A, Herkner KR |year=2010 |title=The National Austrian Newborn Screening Program – Eight years experience with mass spectrometry. Past, present, and future goals |journal=Wiener Klinische Wochenschrift |volume=122 |issue=21–22 |pages=607–613 |doi=10.1007/s00508-010-1457-3 |pmid=20938748 |s2cid=27643449}}</ref> and England in 1968.<ref name="englandscreening">{{Cite journal |vauthors=Komrower GM, Sardharwalla IB, Fowler B, Bridge C |year=1979 |title=The Manchester regional screening programme: A 10-year exercise in patient and family care |journal=British Medical Journal |volume=2 |issue=6191 |pages=635–638 |doi=10.1136/bmj.2.6191.635 |pmc=1596331 |pmid=497752}}</ref>

In 2017, the European Guidelines were published.<ref>{{Cite journal |vauthors=van Wegberg AM, MacDonald A, Ahring K, Bélanger-Quintana A, Blau N, Bosch AM, Burlina A, Campistol J, Feillet F, Giżewska M, Huijbregts SC, Kearney S, Leuzzi V, Maillot F, Muntau AC, van Rijn M, Trefz F, Walter JH, van Spronsen FJ |date=October 2017 |title=The complete European guidelines on phenylketonuria: diagnosis and treatment |journal=Orphanet Journal of Rare Diseases |language=En |volume=12 |issue=1 |pages=162 |doi=10.1186/s13023-017-0685-2 |pmc=5639803 |pmid=29025426 |doi-access=free}}</ref> They were called for by the patient organizations such as the [[European Society for Phenylketonuria and Allied Disorders Treated as Phenylketonuria]].<ref>{{Cite news |title=Consensus Paper - E.S.PKU |url=https://www.espku.org/projects/consensus-paper/ |access-date=2018-11-23 |work=E.S.PKU |language=en-GB}}</ref><ref>{{Cite journal |vauthors=Hagedorn TS, van Berkel P, Hammerschmidt G, Lhotáková M, Saludes RP |date=December 2013 |title=Requirements for a minimum standard of care for phenylketonuria: the patients' perspective |journal=Orphanet Journal of Rare Diseases |language=En |volume=8 |issue=1 |pages=191 |doi=10.1186/1750-1172-8-191 |pmc=3878574 |pmid=24341788 |doi-access=free}}</ref> They have received some critical reception.<ref>{{Cite journal |vauthors=Burgard P, Ullrich K, Ballhausen D, Hennermann JB, Hollak CE, Langeveld M, Karall D, Konstantopoulou V, Maier EM, Lang F, Lachmann R, Murphy E, Garbade S, Hoffmann GF, Kölker S, Lindner M, Zschocke J |date=September 2017 |title=Issues with European guidelines for phenylketonuria |journal=The Lancet. Diabetes & Endocrinology |volume=5 |issue=9 |pages=681–683 |doi=10.1016/S2213-8587(17)30201-2 |pmid=28842158 |doi-access=free}}</ref>

==Etymology and pronunciation==
The word ''phenylketonuria'' uses [[classical compound|combining forms]] of ''[[phenyl]]'' + ''[[ketone]]'' + ''[[wikt:-uria#Suffix|-uria]]''; it is pronounced {{IPAc-en|ˌ|f|iː|n|aɪ|l|ˌ|k|iː|t|ə|ˈ|nj|ʊər|i|ə|,_|ˌ|f|ɛ|n|-|,_|-|n|ɪ|l|-|,_|-|n|əl|-|,_|-|t|oʊ|-}}{{refn|{{MerriamWebsterDictionary|Phenylketonuria}}}}{{refn|{{Cite encyclopedia |title=Phenylketonuria |encyclopedia=[[Lexico]] UK English Dictionary |publisher=[[Oxford University Press]] |url=http://www.lexico.com/definition/Phenylketonuria |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200805104920/https://www.lexico.com/definition/phenylketonuria |archive-date=2020-08-05 |url-status=dead}} }}.

==Research==
Other therapies are under investigation, including [[gene therapy]].

[[BioMarin Pharmaceutical|BioMarin]] is conducting clinical trials to investigate PEG-PAL (PEGylated recombinant [[phenylalanine ammonia lyase]] or 'PAL'), which is an enzyme substitution therapy in which the missing PAH enzyme is replaced with an analogous enzyme that also breaks down Phe. PEG-PAL was in Phase 2 clinical development as of 2015,<ref>{{Cite web |title=BioMarin : Pipeline : Pipeline Overview : BMN 165 for PKU |url=https://www.bmrn.com/pipeline/peg-pal-for-pku.php |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150101054444/https://www.bmrn.com/pipeline/peg-pal-for-pku.php |archive-date=2015-01-01 |website=bmrn.com}}</ref> but was put on clinical hold in September 2021. In February 2022, the FDA issued a statement requiring further data from non-clinical studies to assess [[Oncogenic|oncogenic risk]] resulting from PEG-PAL treatments.<ref>{{Cite web |title=BioMarin Provides Updates on Progress in Gene Therapy Programs |url=https://investors.biomarin.com/2022-02-17-BioMarin-Provides-Updates-on-Progress-in-Gene-Therapy-Programs |access-date=2023-09-04 |website=BioMarin Investors |language=en-US}}</ref>


==See also==
==See also==
* [[Hyperphenylalanemia]]
* [[Lofenalac]]
* [[Tetrahydrobiopterin deficiency]]
* [[Tetrahydrobiopterin deficiency]]
* ''[[Flowers for Algernon]]'', which features a character who has PKU.


==References==
==Notes and references==
{{reflist}}
{{Reflist}}


==External links==
== External links ==
{{Medical resources
*{{DMOZ|/Health/Conditions_and_Diseases/Rare_Disorders/Phenylketonuria/}}
| oMIM_mult = {{OMIM2|261630}}
*[http://www.pkunews.org/ National PKU News]
| orphanet_mult = {{Orphanet2|226}}
*[http://www.pkuwiki.com PKU Wiki] A Wiki dedicated to PKU
| DiseasesDB = 9987
*[http://www.lowproteinliving.co.uk/ Videos, Blogs, PKU Community]
| ICD11 = {{ICD11|5C50.0}}
*[http://www.pku.com/ Online PKU Community]
| ICD10 = {{ICD10|E70.0}}, {{ICD10|E70.1}}
| ICD9 = {{ICD9|270.1}}
| OMIM = 261600
| MedlinePlus = 001166
| eMedicineSubj = ped
| eMedicineTopic = 1787
| eMedicine_mult = {{eMedicine2|derm|712}} {{eMedicine2|article|947781}}
| MeshID = D010661
| GeneReviewsName = Phenylalanine Hydroxylase Deficiency
| GeneReviewsNBK = NBK1504
| Orphanet = 716
}}


{{Amino acid metabolic pathology}}
{{Amino acid metabolic pathology}}


[[Category:Genetic disorders]]
[[Category:Intellectual disability]]
[[Category:Autosomal recessive disorders]]
[[Category:Autosomal recessive disorders]]
[[Category:Inborn errors of metabolism]]
[[Category:Amino acid metabolism disorders]]
[[Category:Skin conditions resulting from errors in metabolism]]

[[Category:Disorders causing seizures]]
[[ar:فينايلكيتونوريا]]
[[Category:Biology of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder]]
[[cs:Fenylketonurie]]
[[Category:Rare diseases]]
[[da:Fenylketonuri]]
[[Category:Wikipedia medicine articles ready to translate]]
[[de:Phenylketonurie]]
[[Category:Newborn screening]]
[[el:Φαινυλκετονουρία]]
[[es:Fenilcetonuria]]
[[eu:Fenilzetonuria]]
[[fr:Phénylcétonurie]]
[[ko:페닐케톤뇨증]]
[[hr:Fenilketonurija]]
[[id:Fenilketonuria]]
[[it:Fenilchetonuria]]
[[he:פנילקטונוריה]]
[[hu:Fenilketonúria]]
[[nl:Fenylketonurie]]
[[ja:フェニルケトン尿症]]
[[no:Fenylketonuri]]
[[nn:Fenylketonuri]]
[[pl:Fenyloketonuria]]
[[pt:Fenilcetonúria]]
[[ru:Фенилкетонурия]]
[[simple:Phenylketonuria]]
[[sk:Fenylketonúria]]
[[sr:Фенилкетонурија]]
[[fi:Fenyyliketonuria]]
[[sv:Fenylketonuri]]
[[th:ฟีนิลคีโตนูเรีย]]
[[tr:Fenilketonüri]]
[[zh:苯丙酮尿症]]a dick sucking disease

Latest revision as of 14:29, 25 October 2024

Phenylketonuria
Other namesPhenylalanine hydroxylase deficiency, PAH deficiency, Følling disease[1]
Phenylalanine
SpecialtyMedical genetics, pediatrics, dietetics
SymptomsWithout treatment intellectual disability, seizures, behavioral problems, mental disorders, musty odor[1]
Usual onsetAt birth[2]
TypesClassic, variant[1]
CausesGenetic (autosomal recessive)[1]
Diagnostic methodNewborn screening programs in many countries[3]
TreatmentDiet low in foods that contain phenylalanine; special supplements[2]
MedicationSapropterin dihydrochloride,[2] pegvaliase[4]
PrognosisNormal health with treatment[5]
Frequency~1 in 12,000 newborns[6]

Phenylketonuria (PKU) is an inborn error of metabolism that results in decreased metabolism of the amino acid phenylalanine.[3] Untreated PKU can lead to intellectual disability, seizures, behavioral problems, and mental disorders.[1][7] It may also result in a musty smell and lighter skin.[1] A baby born to a mother who has poorly treated PKU may have heart problems, a small head, and low birth weight.[1]

Phenylketonuria is an inherited genetic disorder. It is caused by mutations in the PAH gene, which can result in inefficient or nonfunctional phenylalanine hydroxylase, an enzyme responsible for the metabolism of excess phenylalanine. This results in the buildup of dietary phenylalanine to potentially toxic levels. It is autosomal recessive, meaning that both copies of the gene must be mutated for the condition to develop. There are two main types, classic PKU and variant PKU, depending on whether any enzyme function remains. Those with one copy of a mutated gene typically do not have symptoms.[1] Many countries have newborn screening programs for the disease.[3]

Treatment is with a diet that (1) is low in foods that contain phenylalanine, and which (2) includes special supplements. Babies should use a special formula with a small amount of breast milk. The diet should begin as soon as possible after birth and be continued for life.[2] People who are diagnosed early and maintain a strict diet can have normal health and a normal life span. Effectiveness is monitored through periodic blood tests.[5] The medication sapropterin dihydrochloride may be useful in some.[2]

Phenylketonuria affects about 1 in 12,000 babies.[6] Males and females are affected equally.[8] The disease was discovered in 1934 by Ivar Asbjørn Følling, with the importance of diet determined in 1935.[9] As of 2023, genetic therapies that aim to directly restore liver PAH activity are a promising and active research field.[10]

Signs and symptoms

[edit]
Abnormally small head (microcephaly)

Untreated PKU can lead to intellectual disability, seizures, behavioral problems, and mental disorders. It may also result in a musty smell and lighter skin. A baby born to a mother who has poorly treated PKU may have heart problems, a small head, and low birth weight.[1]

Because the mother's body is able to break down phenylalanine during pregnancy, infants with PKU are normal at birth. The disease is not detectable by physical examination at that time, because no damage has yet been done. Newborn screening is performed to detect the disease and initiate treatment before any damage is done. The blood sample is usually taken by a heel prick, typically performed 2–7 days after birth. This test can reveal elevated phenylalanine levels after one or two days of normal infant feeding.[11][12]

If a child is not diagnosed during the routine newborn screening test and a phenylalanine-restricted diet is not introduced, then phenylalanine levels in the blood will increase over time. Toxic levels of phenylalanine (and insufficient levels of tyrosine) can interfere with infant development in ways that have permanent effects. The disease may present clinically with seizures, hypopigmentation (excessively fair hair and skin), and a "musty odor" to the baby's sweat and urine (due to phenylacetate, a carboxylic acid produced by the oxidation of phenylacetone). In most cases, a repeat test should be done at approximately two weeks of age to verify the initial test and uncover any phenylketonuria that was initially missed.[13]

Untreated children often fail to attain early developmental milestones, develop microcephaly, and demonstrate progressive impairment of cerebral function. Hyperactivity, EEG abnormalities, and seizures, and severe learning disabilities are major clinical problems later in life. A characteristic "musty or mousy" odor on the skin, as well as a predisposition for eczema, persist throughout life in the absence of treatment.[14]

The damage done to the brain if PKU is untreated during the first months of life is not reversible. It is critical to control the diet of infants with PKU very carefully so that the brain has an opportunity to develop normally. Affected children who are detected at birth and treated are much less likely to develop neurological problems or have seizures and intellectual disability (though such clinical disorders are still possible including asthma, eczema, anemia, weight gain, renal insufficiency, osteoporosis, gastritis, esophagus, and kidney deficiencies, kidney stones, and hypertension). Additionally, major depressive disorders occur 230% higher than controls; dizziness and giddiness occur 180% higher; chronic ischemic heart disease, asthma, diabetes, and gastroenteritis occur 170% higher; and stress and adjustment disorders occur 160% higher.[15][16] In general, however, outcomes for people treated for PKU are good. Treated people may have no detectable physical, neurological, or developmental problems at all.[citation needed]

Genetics

[edit]
Phenylketonuria is inherited in an autosomal recessive fashion

PKU is an autosomal recessive metabolic genetic disorder. As an autosomal recessive disorder, two PKU alleles are required for an individual to experience symptoms of the disease. For a child to inherit PKU, both parents must have and pass on the defective gene.[17] If both parents are carriers for PKU, there is a 25% chance any child they have will be born with the disorder, a 50% chance the child will be a carrier and a 25% chance the child will neither develop nor be a carrier for the disease.[5]

PKU is characterized by homozygous or compound heterozygous mutations in the gene for the hepatic enzyme phenylalanine hydroxylase (PAH), rendering it nonfunctional.[18]: 541  This enzyme is necessary to metabolize the amino acid phenylalanine (Phe) to the amino acid tyrosine (Tyr). When PAH activity is reduced, phenylalanine accumulates and is converted into phenylpyruvate (also known as phenylketone), which can be detected in the urine.[19]

Carriers of a single PKU allele do not exhibit symptoms of the disease but appear to be protected to some extent against the fungal toxin ochratoxin A. Louis Woolf suggested that this accounted for the persistence of the allele in certain populations,[20] in that it confers a selective advantage—in other words, being a heterozygote is advantageous.[21]

The PAH gene is located on chromosome 12 in the bands 12q22-q24.2.[22] As of 2000, around 400 disease-causing mutations had been found in the PAH gene. This is an example of allelic genetic heterogeneity.[5]

Pathophysiology

[edit]

When phenylalanine (Phe) cannot be metabolized by the body, a typical diet that would be healthy for people without PKU causes abnormally high levels of Phe to accumulate in the blood, which is toxic to the brain. If left untreated (and often even in treatment), complications of PKU include severe intellectual disability, brain function abnormalities, microcephaly, mood disorders, irregular motor functioning, and behavioral problems such as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, as well as physical symptoms such as a "musty" odor, eczema, and unusually light skin and hair coloration.[23]

Classical PKU

[edit]

Classical PKU, and its less severe forms "mild PKU" and "mild hyperphenylalaninemia" are caused by a mutated gene for the enzyme phenylalanine hydroxylase (PAH), which converts the amino acid phenylalanine ("Phe") to other essential compounds in the body, in particular tyrosine. Tyrosine is a conditionally essential amino acid for PKU patients because without PAH it cannot be produced in the body through the breakdown of phenylalanine.[citation needed]

PAH deficiency causes a spectrum of disorders, including classic phenylketonuria (PKU) and mild hyperphenylalaninemia (also known as "hyperphe" or "mild HPA"),[24] a less severe accumulation of phenylalanine. Compared to classic PKU patients, patients with "hyperphe" have greater PAH enzyme activity and are able to tolerate larger amounts of phenylalanine in their diets. Without dietary intervention, mild HPA patients have blood Phe levels higher than those with normal PAH activity. There is currently no international consensus on the definition of mild HPA, however, it is most frequently diagnosed at blood Phe levels between 2–6 mg/dL.[25]

Phenylalanine is a large, neutral amino acid (LNAA). LNAAs compete for transport across the blood–brain barrier (BBB) via the large neutral amino acid transporter (LNAAT). If phenylalanine is in excess in the blood, it will saturate the transporter. Excessive levels of phenylalanine tend to decrease the levels of other LNAAs in the brain. As these amino acids are necessary for protein and neurotransmitter synthesis, Phe buildup hinders the development of the brain, causing intellectual disability.[26]

Recent research suggests that neurocognitive, psychosocial, quality of life, growth, nutrition, bone pathology are slightly suboptimal even for patients who are treated and maintain their Phe levels in the target range, if their diet is not supplemented with other amino acids.[27]

Classic PKU affects myelination and white matter tracts in untreated infants; this may be one major cause of neurological problems associated with phenylketonuria. Differences in white matter development are observable with magnetic resonance imaging. Abnormalities in gray matter can also be detected,[28] particularly in the motor and pre-motor cortex, thalamus and the hippocampus.[29]

It was recently suggested that PKU may resemble amyloid diseases, such as Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson's disease, due to the formation of toxic amyloid-like assemblies of phenylalanine.[30]

Tetrahydrobiopterin-deficient hyperphenylalaninemia

[edit]

A rarer form of hyperphenylalaninemia is tetrahydrobiopterin deficiency, which occurs when the PAH enzyme is normal, and a defect is found in the biosynthesis or recycling of the cofactor tetrahydrobiopterin (BH4).[31] BH4 is necessary for proper activity of the enzyme PAH, and this coenzyme can be supplemented as treatment. Those with this form of hyperphenylalaninemia may have a deficiency of tyrosine (which is created from phenylalanine by PAH), in which case treatment is supplementation of tyrosine to account for this deficiency.[citation needed]

Levels of dopamine can be used to distinguish between these two types. Tetrahydrobiopterin is required to convert Phe to Tyr and is required to convert Tyr to L-DOPA via the enzyme tyrosine hydroxylase. L-DOPA, in turn, is converted to dopamine. Low levels of dopamine lead to high levels of prolactin. By contrast, in classical PKU (without dihydrobiopterin involvement), prolactin levels would be relatively normal.[32][citation needed]

As of 2020, tetrahydrobiopterin deficiency was known to result from defects in five genes.[33]

Metabolic pathways

[edit]
Pathophysiology of phenylketonuria, which is due to the absence of functional phenylalanine hydroxylase (classical subtype) or functional enzymes for the recycling of tetrahydrobiopterin (new variant subtype) utilized in the first step of the metabolic pathway.

The enzyme phenylalanine hydroxylase normally converts the amino acid phenylalanine into the amino acid tyrosine. If this reaction does not take place, phenylalanine accumulates and tyrosine is deficient. Excessive phenylalanine can be metabolized into phenylketones through the minor route, a transaminase pathway with glutamate. Metabolites include phenylacetate, phenylpyruvate and phenethylamine.[34] Elevated levels of phenylalanine in the blood and detection of phenylketones in the urine is diagnostic, however most patients are diagnosed via newborn screening.[citation needed][35]

Screening

[edit]
Blood is taken from a two-week-old baby to test for phenylketonuria

PKU is commonly included in the newborn screening panel of many countries, with varied detection techniques. Most babies born in Europe, North America, and Australia are screened for PKU soon after birth.[36][37] Screening for PKU is done with bacterial inhibition assay (Guthrie test), immunoassays using fluorometric or photometric detection, or amino acid measurement using tandem mass spectrometry (MS/MS). Measurements done using MS/MS determine the concentration of Phe and the ratio of Phe to tyrosine, the ratio will be elevated in PKU.[38]

Treatment

[edit]

PKU is not curable. However, if it is diagnosed early enough, an affected newborn can grow up with normal brain development by managing and controlling phenylalanine ("Phe") levels through diet, or a combination of diet and medication.[39] If dietary treatment is not initiated within 2 weeks after birth, the child is likely to develop permanent intellectual disability, even if dietary interventions begin shortly thereafter.[37]

Diet

[edit]

People who follow the prescribed dietary treatment from birth may (but not always) have no symptoms. Their PKU would be detectable only by a blood test. People must adhere to a special diet low in Phe for optimal brain development. Since Phe is necessary for the synthesis of many proteins, it is required for appropriate growth, but levels must be strictly controlled.[37]

Warning for people with phenylketonuria on a label for an aspartame-containing drink

Optimal health ranges (or "target ranges") are between 120 and 360 μmol/L or equivalently 2 to 6 mg/dL. This is optimally to be achieved during at least the first 10 years,[40] to allow the brain to develop normally.[citation needed]

The diet requires restricting or eliminating foods high in Phe, such as soybeans, egg whites, shrimp, chicken breast, spirulina, watercress, fish, nuts, crayfish, lobster, tuna, turkey, legumes, and lowfat cottage cheese.[41] Starchy foods, such as potatoes and corn are generally acceptable in controlled amounts, but the quantity of Phe consumed from these foods must be monitored. A corn-free diet may be prescribed in some cases. A food diary is usually kept to record the amount of Phe consumed with each meal, snack, or drink. An "exchange" system can be used to calculate the amount of Phe in a portion of food from the protein content identified on a nutritional information label. Lower-protein "medical food" substitutes are often used in place of normal bread, pasta, and other grain-based foods, which contain a significant amount of Phe. Many fruits and vegetables are lower in Phe and can be eaten in larger quantities. Infants may still be breastfed to provide all of the benefits of breastmilk, but the quantity must also be monitored and supplementation for missing nutrients will be required. The sweetener aspartame, present in many diet foods and soft drinks, must also be avoided, as aspartame contains phenylalanine.[42]

The amino acid tyrosine becomes essential in people with phenylalanine hydroxylase deficiency. Thus, in addition to the careful reduction of Phe in the diet, Tyr must be supplemented to ensure that nutritional needs are met.[37]

Different people can tolerate different amounts of Phe in their diet. Regular blood tests are used to determine the effects of dietary Phe intake on blood Phe level.[citation needed]

Nutritional supplements

[edit]

Supplementary "protein substitute" formulas are typically prescribed for people PKU (starting in infancy) to provide the amino acids and other necessary nutrients that would otherwise be lacking in a low-phenylalanine diet. Tyrosine, which is normally derived from phenylalanine and which is necessary for normal brain function, is usually supplemented. Consumption of the protein substitute formulas can actually reduce phenylalanine levels, probably because it stops the process of protein catabolism from releasing Phe stored in the muscles and other tissues into the blood. Many PKU patients have their highest Phe levels after a period of fasting (such as overnight) because fasting triggers catabolism.[43] A diet that is low in phenylalanine but does not include protein substitutes may also fail to lower blood Phe levels, since a nutritionally insufficient diet may also trigger catabolism. For all these reasons, the prescription formula is an important part of the treatment for patients with classic PKU.[citation needed]

Evidence supports dietary supplementation with large neutral amino acids (LNAAs).[44] The LNAAs (e.g. leu, tyr, trp, met, his, ile, val, thr) may compete with phe for specific carrier proteins that transport LNAAs across the intestinal mucosa into the blood and across the blood–brain barrier into the brain. Its use is limited in the US due to the cost but is available in most countries as part of a low protein / PHE diet to replace missing nutrients.[citation needed]

Another treatment strategy is casein glycomacropeptide (CGMP), which is a milk peptide naturally free of Phe in its pure form[45] CGMP can substitute for the main part of the free amino acids in the PKU diet and provides several beneficial nutritional effects compared to free amino acids. The fact that CGMP is a peptide ensures that the absorption rate of its amino acids is prolonged compared to free amino acids and thereby results in improved protein retention[46] and increased satiety[47] compared to free amino acids. Another important benefit of CGMP is that the taste is significantly improved[46] when CGMP substitutes part of the free amino acids and this may help ensure improved compliance to the PKU diet.[citation needed]

Furthermore, CGMP contains a high amount of the Phe-lowering LNAAs, which constitutes about 41 g per 100 g protein[45] and will therefore help maintain plasma Phe levels in the target range.

Enzyme substitutes

[edit]

In 2018, the FDA approved an enzyme substitute called pegvaliase which metabolizes phenylalanine.[4] It is for adults who are poorly managed on other treatments.[4]

Tetrahydrobiopterin (BH4) (a cofactor for the oxidation of phenylalanine) when taken by mouth can reduce blood levels of this amino acid in some people.[48][49]

Mothers

[edit]

For women with PKU, it is important for the health of their children to maintain low Phe levels before and during pregnancy.[50] Though the developing fetus may only be a carrier of the PKU gene, the intrauterine environment can have very high levels of phenylalanine, which can cross the placenta. The child may develop congenital heart disease, growth retardation, microcephaly and intellectual disability as a result.[51] PKU-affected women themselves are not at risk of additional complications during pregnancy.[citation needed]

In most countries, women with PKU who wish to have children are advised to lower their blood Phe levels (typically to between 2 and 6 mg/dL) before they become pregnant, and carefully control their levels throughout the pregnancy. This is achieved by performing regular blood tests and adhering very strictly to a diet, in general monitored on a day-to-day basis by a specialist metabolic dietitian. In many cases, as the fetus' liver begins to develop and produce PAH normally, the mother's blood Phe levels will drop, requiring an increased intake to remain within the safe range of 2–6 mg/dL. The mother's daily Phe intake may double or even triple by the end of the pregnancy, as a result. When maternal blood Phe levels fall below 2 mg/dL, anecdotal reports indicate that the mothers may experience adverse effects, including headaches, nausea, hair loss, and general malaise. When low phenylalanine levels are maintained for the duration of pregnancy, there are no elevated levels of risk of birth defects compared with a baby born to a non-PKU mother.[52]

Epidemiology

[edit]
Country Incidence
Australia 1 in 10,000[53]
Brazil 1 in 8,690
Canada 1 in 22,000[53]
China 1 in 17,000[53]
Czechoslovakia 1 in 7,000[53]
Denmark 1 in 12,000[53]
Finland 1 in 200,000[53]
France 1 in 13,500[53]
India 1 in 18,300
Ireland 1 in 4,500[54]
Italy 1 in 17,000[53]
Japan 1 in 125,000[53]
Korea 1 in 41,000[55]
Netherlands 1 in 18,000[56]
Norway 1 in 14,500[53]
Philippines 1 in 102,000[57]
Poland 1 in 8,000[56]
Scotland 1 in 5,300[53]
Spain 1 in 20,000[56]
Sweden 1 in 20,000[56]
Turkey 1 in 2,600[53]
United Kingdom 1 in 10,000[56]
United States 1 in 25,000[58]

The average number of new cases of PKU varies in different human populations. United States Caucasians are affected at a rate of 1 in 10,000.[59] Turkey has the highest documented rate in the world, with 1 in 2,600 births, while countries such as Finland and Japan have extremely low rates with fewer than one case of PKU in 100,000 births. A 1987 study from Slovakia reports a Roma population with an extremely high incidence of PKU (one case in 40 births) due to extensive inbreeding.[60] It is the most common amino acid metabolic problem in the United Kingdom.[citation needed]

History

[edit]

Before the causes of PKU were understood, PKU caused severe disability in most people who inherited the relevant mutations. Nobel and Pulitzer Prize winning author Pearl S. Buck had a daughter named Carol who lived with PKU before treatment was available, and wrote an account of its effects in a book called The Child Who Never Grew.[61] Many untreated PKU patients born before widespread newborn screening are still alive, largely in dependent living homes/institutions.[62]

Phenylketonuria was discovered by the Norwegian physician Ivar Asbjørn Følling in 1934[63] when he noticed hyperphenylalaninemia (HPA) was associated with intellectual disability. In Norway, this disorder is known as Følling's disease, named after its discoverer.[64] Følling was one of the first physicians to apply detailed chemical analysis to the study of disease.[citation needed]

In 1934 at Rikshospitalet, Følling saw a young woman named Borgny Egeland. She had two children, Liv and Dag, who had been normal at birth but subsequently developed intellectual disability. When Dag was about a year old, the mother noticed a strong smell to his urine. Følling obtained urine samples from the children and, after many tests, he found that the substance causing the odor in the urine was phenylpyruvic acid. The children, he concluded, had excess phenylpyruvic acid in the urine, the condition which came to be called phenylketonuria (PKU).[19]

His analysis of the urine of the two affected siblings led him to request many physicians near Oslo to test the urine of other affected patients. This led to the discovery of the same substance he had found in eight other patients. He conducted tests and found reactions that gave rise to benzaldehyde and benzoic acid, which led him to conclude that the compound contained a benzene ring. Further testing showed the melting point to be the same as phenylpyruvic acid, which indicated that the substance was in the urine.[65]

In 1954, Horst Bickel, Evelyn Hickmans and John Gerrard published a paper that described how they created a diet that was low in phenylalanine and the patient recovered. Bickel, Gerrard and Hickmans were awarded the John Scott Medal in 1962 for their discovery.[66]

PKU was the first disorder to be routinely diagnosed through widespread newborn screening. Robert Guthrie introduced the newborn screening test for PKU in the early 1960s.[67] With the knowledge that PKU could be detected before symptoms were evident, and treatment initiated, screening was quickly adopted around the world. Ireland was the first country to introduce a national screening programme in February 1966,[68] Austria also started screening in 1966[69] and England in 1968.[70]

In 2017, the European Guidelines were published.[71] They were called for by the patient organizations such as the European Society for Phenylketonuria and Allied Disorders Treated as Phenylketonuria.[72][73] They have received some critical reception.[74]

Etymology and pronunciation

[edit]

The word phenylketonuria uses combining forms of phenyl + ketone + -uria; it is pronounced /ˌfnlˌktəˈnjʊəriə, ˌfɛn-, -nɪl-, -nəl-, -t-/[75][76].

Research

[edit]

Other therapies are under investigation, including gene therapy.

BioMarin is conducting clinical trials to investigate PEG-PAL (PEGylated recombinant phenylalanine ammonia lyase or 'PAL'), which is an enzyme substitution therapy in which the missing PAH enzyme is replaced with an analogous enzyme that also breaks down Phe. PEG-PAL was in Phase 2 clinical development as of 2015,[77] but was put on clinical hold in September 2021. In February 2022, the FDA issued a statement requiring further data from non-clinical studies to assess oncogenic risk resulting from PEG-PAL treatments.[78]

See also

[edit]

References

[edit]
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