Phenylalanine: A Key Amino Acid For Neurotransmitters And Pigment Synthesis

Phenylalanine (3 letter code)

Phe

The 3-letter code for phenylalanine is Phe. It is an essential amino acid that cannot be synthesized by the body and must be obtained from dietary sources. It is found in high protein foods such as meat, fish, eggs, and dairy products as well as certain plant-based sources like tofu, quinoa, and beans.

Phenylalanine is a precursor to tyrosine, another amino acid that is important in the synthesis of neurotransmitters such as dopamine, norepinephrine, and epinephrine. It is also involved in the production of melanin, the pigment that gives color to skin and hair.

However, individuals with a rare genetic disorder called phenylketonuria (PKU) cannot metabolize phenylalanine properly and must maintain a strict low-phenylalanine diet to prevent brain damage and developmental delays.

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