UNDERSTANDING PHENYLKETONURIA (PKU)

Phenylketonuria phenylketonuria is a rare genetic condition. It impacts the individual's ability to metabolize an amino acid called phenylalanine. Typically, the organs creates an enzyme designated as phenylalanine hydroxylase, which converts phenylalanine into tyrosine. In people who have PKU, this enzyme fails to function properly. As a result, p