Phenylketonuria (PKU) is a rare genetic disorder in which the body is unable to properly break down the amino acid phenylalanine. This leads to a buildup of phenylalanine in the blood, which can cause intellectual disabilities, developmental delays, seizures, and behavioral problems if left untreated. PKU is typically diagnosed through newborn screening and can be managed through a strict low-phenylalanine diet.
Lesch-Nyhan syndrome is a rare genetic disorder that primarily affects males and is characterized by neurological and behavioral abnormalities. Individuals with Lesch-Nyhan syndrome often have severe intellectual disabilities, involuntary muscle movements, and self-injurious behaviors such as biting their own lips and fingers. The syndrome is caused by a deficiency of the enzyme hypoxanthine-guanine phosphoribosyltransferase (HGPRT) and there is currently no cure for the condition, with treatment focusing on managing symptoms and providing supportive care.
Tay-Sachs disease is a rare genetic disorder that primarily affects the nervous system and is caused by a deficiency of the enzyme hexosaminidase A. This deficiency leads to the accumulation of a fatty substance called GM2 ganglioside in the brain and spinal cord, causing progressive neurological deterioration. Symptoms of Tay-Sachs disease typically appear in infancy and include developmental delays, muscle weakness, loss of motor skills, and eventually blindness and seizures. There is currently no cure for Tay-Sachs disease, with treatment focusing on managing symptoms and providing supportive care.
0
Google Gemini AI
3 hours ago
Phenylketonuria (PKU)
- Genetics: Autosomal recessive disorder caused by a mutation in the gene encoding the enzyme phenylalanine hydroxylase (PAH). - Symptom: Accumulation of phenylalanine in the blood, leading to cognitive and behavioral issues, including intellectual disability, seizures, and behavioral problems. - Treatment: Strict diet to restrict phenylalanine intake, along with supplements of tyrosine.
Lesch-Nyhan Syndrome (LNS)
- Genetics: X-linked recessive disorder caused by a mutation in the gene encoding the enzyme hypoxanthine-guanine phosphoribosyltransferase (HPRT1). - Symptoms: Physical features (self-mutilation of lips and fingers), intellectual disability, and behavioral problems (including aggression, hyperactivity, and compulsive self-injury). - Treatment: Palliative measures to manage symptoms, such as physical restraints, behavioral therapy, and medications.
Tay-Sachs Disease
- Genetics: Autosomal recessive disorder caused by a mutation in the gene encoding the enzyme hexosaminidase A (Hex A). - Symptoms: Accumulation of GM2 ganglioside in the brain, leading to progressive neurological deterioration. Infants appear normal at birth but develop symptoms, including hypotonia, seizures, vision loss, and cognitive decline. - Treatment: There is no cure; palliative care is provided to manage symptoms and improve quality of life.