Houston Man Achieves Lifelong Dreams After Breakthrough Treatment for Rare Genetic Disorder

Brandon Morris of Houston, Texas, is living a fuller life thanks to a novel treatment for phenylketonuria (PKU), a rare genetic disorder he was diagnosed with as a child. For decades, Morris navigated a highly restrictive diet, but a modern enzyme substitution therapy has opened doors to experiences he once only dreamed of, including competitive bodybuilding and enjoying family meals.

Understanding Phenylketonuria (PKU)

Phenylketonuria (PKU) is a rare inherited metabolic disease that affects the body’s ability to break down phenylalanine, an amino acid found in protein. If left untreated, a buildup of phenylalanine can lead to intellectual disabilities and other serious health problems. Approximately 1 in 15,000 people are born with PKU. UTHealth Houston

Early Life with PKU

Brandon Morris was diagnosed with PKU as an infant, around the time routine newborn screening for the condition began in the 1960s. Growing up, he relied on specialized medical shakes to meet his protein requirements, often finding the taste unpleasant. He recalls a tough childhood, missing out on common foods like ice cream, burgers, and chicken nuggets. UTHealth Houston

The Power of Community: Camp PHEver

A turning point in Morris’s life came at age 13 when he attended Camp PHEver, a summer camp for children and teens with PKU, founded in 1997 by Barbara Dominguez, a metabolic nurse at UTHealth Houston. The camp provided a supportive environment where Morris could connect with others facing similar challenges. “It feels like you’re there with family, and it’s always felt that way,” Morris said. UTHealth Houston

A Game-Changing Treatment: Palynziq

Morris’s care team at UTHealth Houston, including Hope Northrup, MD, and Paige Roberts, RD, encouraged him to attempt Palynziq (pegvaliase), an injectable enzyme substitution therapy approved by the Food and Drug Administration in 2018. Palynziq helps individuals with PKU metabolize phenylalanine. UTHealth Houston

Prior to starting Palynziq, Morris was limited to approximately 25 grams of protein per day. The treatment has allowed him to increase his protein intake to up to 95 grams per day, significantly improving his quality of life. UTHealth Houston

Achieving Lifelong Dreams

With the support of his medical team and the benefits of Palynziq, Morris has been able to pursue his passion for fitness and compete in bodybuilding competitions. He is also now able to enjoy foods he previously could not, such as gumbo, crawfish, and barbecue, with his family and friends. UTHealth Houston

Brandon Morris’ Professional Life

Brandon Morris currently works in Corporate M&A and Strategy. He has a connection to OIA GLOBAL and is a graduate of Bucknell University. LinkedIn

Another Brandon Morris is a Managing Director at KPMG US specializing in State & Local Tax. He graduated from Texas A&M University. LinkedIn

Legal History

Jenifer Pfanzelt and Brandon Morris filed a compact claim lawsuit against KCG 2121 Ella, LLC d/b/a 2121 Ella in Harris County Justice Courts on November 15, 2022. The case was disposed of on January 1, 1900, with a judgment of $1906. UniCourt