Understanding Large Neutral Amino Acids and the Blood-Brain Barrier

Abstract

Core Messages : • Imbalances of amino acid concentrations • • in the brain may alter brain protein synthe- sis, disturb neurotransmitter synthesis, and be responsible for many of the signs and symptoms of aminoacidopathies. Using knowledge of competitive inhibi- tion at the blood-brain barrier provides insights into new approaches of nutri- tion management in inborn errors of metabolism. Nutrition management using large neu- tral amino acid (LNAA) may be an option for some patients with phenylke- tonuria (PKU). S.