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The purpose of this research is to determine whether partial irradiation of the liver and liver cell transplantation can reduce the need for dietary and medical management of phenylketonuria (PKU) by normalizing phenylalanine (Phe) levels in the body. In people with PKU, an enzyme that does not work properly causes Phe, a protein, to accumulate, which can lead to intellectual disability and central nervous system problems.
Subject to exclusion criteria, candidates must have a diagnosis of PKU, which is not well controlled with standard therapy, as supported by 2 consecutive test results in the 6 prior months showing Phe greater than 12 mg/dL. Males and Females: Ages 14-55 years
This study requires initial screening tests through the Pediatric Clinical and Translational Research Center at UPMC Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh that may take up to 5 days to complete. Qualified candidates will then need to wait until donor liver cells become available for transplant. Radiation and transplant are done in the hospital setting over 2 days. Transplant is done via infusions through a catheter. Multiple transplants may be involved to receive sufficient liver cells. After the final cell transplant, participants will be followed for 2 years. Visits: Approximately 14, plus hospitalization(s) for transplant procedures. Duration: Dependent on availability of transplant cells.
National Institutes of Health
Study Description at National Institutes of Health Phenylketonuria Program Phenylketonuria Genetic and Genomic Medicine Research
Ira Fox, MD
For more information about the study or enrollment, please contact: Jessica Lindenberger, MSN, CRNP, FNP-C 412-692-7530
Children's Hospital's main campus is located in the Lawrenceville neighborhood. Our main hospital address is:
UPMC Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh One Children’s Hospital Way 4401 Penn Ave. Pittsburgh, PA 15224
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