Impact of Phenylalanine Elevations on Brain and Cognition in Adult PKU Carriers
The Impact of Phenylalanine Elevations on Metabolic, Cognitive, and Neural Functioning in Adults Heterozygous for Phenylketonuria (PKU)
University of Missouri-Columbia
36 participants
Dec 19, 2025
INTERVENTIONAL
Conditions
Summary
The goal of this clinical trial is to advance our understanding of the cognitive and neurophysiologic sequelae associated with suboptimal phenylalanine (Phe) metabolism in heterozygous carriers of phenylketonuria (PKU). The main questions it aims to answer are: * Do PKU carriers experience prolonged elevations in brain Phe levels following oral ingestion of dietary Phe? * Do PKU carriers experience disruptions in cognitive functioning following oral ingestion of dietary Phe? * Do PKU carriers experience atypical brain activity following oral ingestion of dietary Phe? Researchers will compare PKU carriers and non-carriers following oral ingestion of dietary Phe and a placebo. Participants will: * Consume Phe or a placebo at two separate visits to our facility * At each visit, they will complete a series of MRIs and cognitive tests throughout the day
Eligibility
Plain Language Summary
Simplified for easier understanding
This summary was AI-generated to explain the trial in plain language. It is not medical advice. Always discuss eligibility with your doctor before enrolling in a clinical trial.
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Interventions
Oral ingestion of phenylalanine (Phe)
Oral ingestion of Placebo (Vitamin C)
Locations(1)
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NCT07220265