Question

In 36 to 48 hours, the newborn will have ingested an ample amount of the amino acid phenylalanine, which, if not metabolized because of a lack of a specific liver enzyme, can result in excessive levels of phenylalanine in the bloodstream and brain, resulting in cognitive impairment; early detection is essential to prevent this.

a) True
b) False

Answer 1

The statement is true as it describes Phenylketonuria (PKU), where the lack of the enzyme phenylalanine hydroxylase leads to a toxic accumulation of phenylalanine causing cognitive impairment.

Step-by-step explanation:

The statement that a newborn ingesting an ample amount of the amino acid phenylalanine can result in cognitive impairment if it is not metabolized due to a lack of a specific liver enzyme is true. Phenylketonuria (PKU) is a metabolic condition caused by a deficiency in the enzyme phenylalanine hydroxylase, which is responsible for converting phenylalanine to tyrosine. Without proper metabolism, phenylalanine can accumulate to toxic levels, leading to damage to the central nervous system and brain. Symptoms of PKU include delayed neurological development, hyperactivity, and intellectual disability. Early detection and management with a specialized low-phenylalanine diet are critical to prevent these adverse outcomes.