Final answer:
Individuals with phenylketonuria (PKU) don't exhibit a deficiency of tyrosine because they can still obtain it from their diet.
Step-by-step explanation:
Individuals with phenylketonuria (PKU) cannot convert phenylalanine to tyrosine, which makes tyrosine a conditionally essential amino acid. However, these individuals do not exhibit a deficiency of tyrosine because they can still obtain it from their diet.
- PKU is a genetic disorder caused by a mutation in the enzyme phenylalanine hydroxylase.
- People with PKU need to follow a low-protein diet and avoid food additives like aspartame, which can be broken down into phenylalanine.
- Phenylalanine can build up to toxic levels in the body and cause brain damage, so individuals with PKU must closely monitor their phenylalanine intake to avoid symptoms and damage.
The complete question is: Individuals with phenylketonuria cannot convert phenylalanine to tyrosine. Why don't these individuals exhibit a deficiency of tyrosine? is: