What causes GA-1?
In order for the body to use protein from the food we eat, it is broken down into smaller parts called amino acids. Special enzymes then make changes to the amino acids so the body can use them. GA-1 occurs when an enzyme called “glutaryl-CoA dehydrogenase” is either missing or not working properly. This enzyme’s job is to break down a substance called glutaryl-CoA. Glutaryl-CoA is made when the amino acids lysine, hydroxylysine and tryptophan are processed. It cannot be removed and it causes glutaric acid and other harmful substances build up in the blood and cause problems. Lysine and tryptophan are found in all foods that contain protein.
