High concentrations of phenylalanine can inhibit the enzyme that decarboxylates 5-hydroxytryptophan to form serotonin. How might this lead to mental retardation?
=> Serotonin is a neurotransmitter. Blockage of its synthesis could easily upset CNS function and, if prolonged, could lead to mental retardation. • Apart from its effects on neurotransmitter levels, explain how a deficiency in PAH activity can lead to mental retardation. Since phenylpyruvate may block entry of pyruvate into mitochondria, and so upset TCA cycle function, it would tend to weaken the cell’s capacity for generating energy, e.g. ATP. Brain tissue consumes much ATP, and any interference with ATP production in this tissue could be expected to lead to CNS effects. If prolonged, the interference could then cause mental retardation, and psychological and emotional disturbances, etc.
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