Amino acids are the building blocks of proteins and play a crucial role in various bodily functions. However, sometimes, the body's ability to metabolize amino acids can be impaired due to genetic defects or other factors. As a result, various disorders of amino-acid metabolism can occur, which can lead to severe health problems. Here are some of the other specified disorders of amino-acid metabolism:
Homocystinuria is a genetic disorder that affects the metabolism of the amino acid methionine. People with this condition have a deficiency of an enzyme called cystathionine beta-synthase, which leads to high levels of homocysteine in the blood. This can cause a range of problems, including intellectual disability, osteoporosis, and blood clots.
Maple Syrup Urine Disease (MSUD) is a rare genetic disorder that affects the metabolism of branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs) - leucine, isoleucine, and valine. People with this condition are unable to break down these amino acids, which leads to a buildup of toxic substances in the blood. This can cause severe neurological problems, including seizures, coma, and even death.
Argininosuccinic Aciduria is a rare genetic disorder that affects the metabolism of the amino acid arginine. People with this condition have a deficiency of the enzyme argininosuccinate lyase, which leads to a buildup of argininosuccinic acid in the blood. This can cause a range of problems, including intellectual disability, liver damage, and high ammonia levels in the blood.
Citrullinemia is a genetic disorder that affects the metabolism of the amino acid citrulline. People with this condition have a deficiency of the enzyme argininosuccinate synthetase, which leads to a buildup of citrulline in the blood. This can cause a range of problems, including intellectual disability, liver damage, and high ammonia levels in the blood.