Fenyylialaniini

Fenyylialaniini is an alpha-amino acid with the formula C9H11NO2. It is one of the twenty proteinogenic amino acids, meaning it is found in proteins. Its side chain is a benzyl group. The name "phenylalanine" comes from the phenyl group and the suffix -alanyl, referring to alanine. It is a nonpolar, aromatic amino acid.

Humans and many other animals cannot synthesize phenylalanine because they lack the necessary enzymes. Therefore, it is an essential amino acid and must be obtained from the diet. Sources of phenylalanine include protein-rich foods such as meat, fish, eggs, and dairy products. In plants, it is found in legumes and nuts.

Fenyylialaniini plays a crucial role in protein synthesis. It is also a precursor for the synthesis of other important biomolecules, including tyrosine, dopamine, norepinephrine, epinephrine, and melanin. Tyrosine, in turn, is a precursor for thyroid hormones.

A metabolic disorder called phenylketonuria (PKU) is caused by a deficiency in the enzyme phenylalanine hydroxylase, which converts phenylalanine to tyrosine. Without this enzyme, phenylalanine builds up in the body to toxic levels, leading to intellectual disability and other neurological problems if not managed through a strict low-phenylalanine diet.

Artificial sweeteners containing aspartame are a dietary source of phenylalanine. Individuals with PKU must carefully monitor their intake of aspartame and other phenylalanine-containing foods.