Phenylalanine Hydroxylase

Phenylalanine Hydroxylase is an enzyme in the body that helps break down an amino acid called phenylalanine, which comes from dietary proteins. It converts phenylalanine into another amino acid called tyrosine, which is used to make important chemicals in the brain and body. If this enzyme doesn’t work properly, phenylalanine can build up to harmful levels, potentially causing brain damage and other health problems—a condition known as phenylketonuria (PKU). Therefore, Phenylalanine Hydroxylase plays a crucial role in maintaining healthy amino acid levels and overall metabolic balance.