Long-term oral lysine supplementation in lysinuric protein intolerance

In lysinuric protein intolerance (LPI), defective transport of cationic amino acids at the basolateral membrane of the polar epithelial cells in the intestine and renal tubules leads to decreased intestinal absorption and excessive renal loss of lysine, arginine, and ornithine. Citrulline supplementation partially restores the function of the urea cycle that is impaired by deficiency of arginine and ornithine, but does not correct the chronic lysine deficiency. Previous attempts to supplement lysine orally have been hindered by profuse diarrhea, probably caused by excess lysine remaining unabsorbed in the gut. However, individually adjusted minute doses of L-lysine hydrochloride at mealtimes are tolerated well, but the long-term benefits of this therapy remain unknown. The aim of the study was to investigate the long-term benefits and possible adverse effects of oral lysine supplementation in patients with LPI. Supplementation of meals with low doses of oral lysine improved fasting plasma lysine concentrations in 27 Finnish patients with LPI without causing hyperammonemia or other recognizable side effects during 12 months of follow-up. In conclusion, low-dose oral lysine supplementation is potentially beneficial to patients with LPI and can be started safely at an early age.