4-Hydroxyphenylpyruvic acid (4-HPPA) is an intermediate in the metabolism of the amino acid phenylalanine. The aromatic side chain of phenylalanine is hydroxylated by the enzyme phenylalanine hydroxylase to form tyrosine. The conversion from tyrosine to 4-HPPA is in turn catalyzed by tyrosine aminotransferase.[2] Additionally, 4-HPPA can be converted to homogentisic acid which is one of the precursors to ochronotic pigment.[3]

It is an intermediary compound in the biosynthesis of scytonemin.

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