What is phenylketonuria? What is its etiology and how can it be treated?

What will be an ideal response?

Phenylketonuria is a metabolic disorder produced by mutation of a gene that results in impaired functioning of a specific enzyme, phenylalanine hydroxylase. The impairments results in the inability of the person's body to oxidize the chemical phenylalanine, which therefore accumulates in the body. If this accumulation is allowed to continue, severe mental retardation may result. A special low-protein diet can prevent most of these changes. The sooner the treatment is begun the better the chances that mental retardation will not result.