Experimental enzyme injection aims to tame PKU's toxic amino acid

NCT ID NCT07672756

First seen Jun 29, 2026 · Last updated Jul 01, 2026 · Updated 2 times

Summary

This early-stage trial tests an experimental drug called PL54 in adults aged 18 to 55 with phenylketonuria (PKU), a genetic disorder that prevents the body from breaking down the amino acid phenylalanine. PL54 is an enzyme designed to help lower high blood phenylalanine levels, which can cause brain damage if uncontrolled. The study will give participants either a single injection or weekly injections for four weeks, monitoring safety and how well the drug works at different doses.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance

PL54 (PEGylated Recombinant Phenylalanine Ammonia-Lyase)

What this could lead to

If safe and effective, PL54 could offer a new treatment option for adults with PKU, potentially helping control blood phenylalanine levels without strict diet alone.

What could go wrong

This is a very early Phase 1 trial with only 48 participants, focused on safety and dosing. It is too small to prove effectiveness, and side effects or lack of benefit are possible.

Disclaimer Read more

This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

phenylketonuria

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

Contacts and locations

Study contacts

  • Contact

    Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••

Locations

  • The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University

    RECRUITING

    Hefei, Anhui, 230022, China

    Contact Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••

    Contact

    Contact