The Adult Phenylketonuria (PKU) Gut Microbiome

• DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms9030530
• Publication Date: 2021-03-05T02:58:07Z
• Authors: Viviana J. Mancilla; Allison E. Mann; Yan Zhang; Michael S. Allen
• Keywords: Gut microbiome; Phenylalanine hydroxylase; Phenylketonurias; Gut bacteria

Phenylketonuria (PKU) is an inborn error of phenylalanine metabolism primarily treated through a phenylalanine-restrictive diet that frequently supplemented with amino acid formula to maintain proper nutrition. Little known the effects these dietary interventions on gut microbiome PKU patients, particularly in adults. In this study, we sequenced V4 region 16S rRNA gene from stool samples collected adults (n = 11) and non-PKU controls 21). Gut bacterial communities were characterized measurements diversity taxa abundance. Additionally, metabolic imputation was performed based detected bacteria. community lower individuals, though effect only statistically suggestive. A total 65 genera across 5 phyla differentially abundant between control (p < 0.001). identified six pathways differed groups 0.05), four enriched two controls. While child has been previously investigated, first study explore adult patients. We find microbial children differs highlights need for further studies understand restrictions.