The accumulation of phenylalanine and its metabolites can interfere with multiple cellular processes:
1. Enzyme Inhibition: High levels of phenylalanine can inhibit other enzymes involved in amino acid metabolism, leading to a disturbance in the metabolic balance. 2. Oxidative Stress: Excess phenylalanine and its byproducts generate free radicals, causing oxidative damage to cellular components like lipids, proteins, and DNA. 3. Neurotoxicity: Phenylalanine can cross the blood-brain barrier and affect brain cells, leading to impaired synaptic transmission and neuronal damage.
