Problem 43 - A Complete Resource Book in Chemistry for JEE Main

Question

Lack of essential amino acids in the diet leads to the disease (a) Kwashiorkar (b) Sickle cell anaemia (c) Night blindness (d) Pernicious anaemia

Step-by-Step Solution

Answer

The disease caused by lack of essential amino acids is Kwashiorkor.

Step 1: Understanding Essential Amino Acids

Essential amino acids are amino acids that cannot be synthesized by the body and must be obtained through diet. They play a vital role in protein synthesis, which is crucial for growth, repair, and maintaining healthy bodily functions.

Step 2: Identifying Kwashiorkor

Kwashiorkor is a severe protein malnutrition that occurs due to a lack of protein and essential amino acids in the diet. It is primarily observed in children in developing countries where diets are low in protein.

Step 3: Evaluating the Other Options

Sickle cell anaemia is a genetic blood disorder affecting the shape of red blood cells and is unrelated to dietary amino acids. Night blindness is often due to a deficiency of vitamin A. Pernicious anaemia is related to a deficiency of vitamin B12, not amino acids.

Step 4: Conclusion

Based on the understanding of essential amino acids and the effects of their deficiency, the correct answer is Kwashiorkor, which fits the condition described in the question related to lack of essential amino acids in the diet.

Key Concepts

Understanding Protein Synthesis

Protein synthesis is a complex process vital for all living organisms. It involves creating proteins from amino acids, which are the building blocks of proteins. There are 20 different amino acids, but not all are equal in terms of how they're sourced.

• Essential amino acids - These cannot be made by our body. We need to get them from our diet. Examples include leucine, isoleucine, and valine.
• Non-essential amino acids - Our bodies can produce these, so dietary intake is not strictly necessary.

Protein synthesis occurs in two main stages:

• Transcription - DNA is used to create mRNA in the cell's nucleus, acting as a blueprint for the protein.
• Translation - mRNA is then used to guide the synthesis of the protein from amino acids in ribosomes within the cell.

An inadequate intake of essential amino acids can hinder protein synthesis, affecting body growth and repair.

Kwashiorkor: The Protein Deficiency Disease

Kwashiorkor is a type of severe malnutrition commonly seen in children, especially in regions where diets are deficient in both calories and protein. This condition arises primarily due to the lack of essential amino acids in the diet.
Affected children typically present with:

• Swelling (Edema) - A noticeable swelling, often in the legs and abdomen.
• Stunted Growth - Slower-than-normal physical development.
• Weakened Immune System - Increased vulnerability to infections.
• Changes in Hair and Skin - Skin might develop patches, and hair can become thin and easily plucked.

Addressing kwashiorkor involves:

• Providing a diet rich in high-quality protein which includes all essential amino acids.
• Ensuring adequate energy intake to meet the child's caloric needs.

Early detection and proper nutrition can reverse the effects of kwashiorkor, highlighting the importance of dietary education and intervention in affected regions.

Understanding Amino Acid Deficiency Diseases

Amino acid deficiency diseases occur when there is an insufficient supply of one or more essential amino acids in the diet. Such deficiencies can lead to a variety of health concerns because amino acids are crucial for many bodily functions.
Some common problems associated with amino acid deficiencies include:

• Anemia - Certain amino acids are necessary for producing the components of blood.
• Muscle Wasting - Muscles break down when they do not receive enough amino acids to maintain them.
• Fatigue - Energy levels can drop due to improper protein synthesis.
• Weak Immune Response - Your body's defense systems may not function optimally.

To prevent these issues, it's essential to consume a balanced diet that provides all the necessary amino acids. This can often be achieved by eating a variety of protein sources, such as:

• Meat, fish, and poultry
• Dairy products and eggs
• Legumes, nuts, and seeds

In regions where dietary diversity is limited, supplementation or fortified foods may be necessary to prevent deficiencies.