Amino acid metabolism mnemonic

Tyrosine-pathway inborn errors

The mnemonic

PKU, Alkaptonuria, Albinism: P-A-A

What each word stands for

  • PPhenylketonuria: phenylalanine hydroxylase deficiency
  • AAlkaptonuria: homogentisate oxidase deficiency
  • AAlbinism: tyrosinase deficiency

Why it matters clinically

Each gives a typical finding: mousy odour, dark urine with ochronosis, and lack of pigment.

Where it stops being reliable

Phenylalanine and tyrosine disorders other than these three, such as tyrosinaemia, are not covered.

Teaching aid, still awaiting independent review. Confirm facts in a standard source.

More mnemonics

Common questions

What is the Amino acid metabolism mnemonic?

PKU, Alkaptonuria, Albinism: P-A-A. It helps you recall: Tyrosine-pathway inborn errors.

What does "P" stand for?

Phenylketonuria: phenylalanine hydroxylase deficiency

What does "A" stand for?

Albinism: tyrosinase deficiency

What are all the parts of the PKU, Alkaptonuria, Albinism: P-A-A mnemonic?

P: Phenylketonuria: phenylalanine hydroxylase deficiency; A: Alkaptonuria: homogentisate oxidase deficiency; A: Albinism: tyrosinase deficiency.

Which topic does this mnemonic belong to?

It belongs to Amino acid metabolism in Biochemistry.

Where does this mnemonic stop being reliable?

Phenylalanine and tyrosine disorders other than these three, such as tyrosinaemia, are not covered.

How is this useful clinically?

Each gives a typical finding: mousy odour, dark urine with ochronosis, and lack of pigment.

How do I make this mnemonic stick?

Say it aloud, write it from memory tomorrow, then again in a week. Then test yourself on a Biochemistry question about Amino acid metabolism.

Is this a standard mnemonic?

It is a teaching aid written or adapted by our team. Some resemble ones students share informally. Check any fact that matters in a standard source.