Inborn Errors Of Metabolism (Iem) Poem by Dr John Celes

God made the earth perfect for man,
With all comforts throughout life-span;
Man's activities change the earth,
Affecting life, even at birth!

When genes defective turn in womb,
And enzymes, proteins fail to form,
A host of symptoms, signs take on
The child, as soon as it is born!

Gone are some genes somewhat astray!
Enzymes, proteins can't form right way;
This change in gene does truly stay,
And life isn't normal any day!

Defects in genes block met-pathways -
Substrates to products held at bay;
Through autosomes, recessive way,
Or X-linked, genes forever stay!

Intra-natal screenings detect;
Treatment today is imperfect;
Avoid the protein, its effect:
Future outcomes, good hope inject!

Enzyme replacement, gene transfers,
Food supplements, dialysis,
Transplanting organs, bone-marrow -
Could make life better tomorrow!

Garrod brought diseases to light,
With Alkaptonuria's insight!
But continue will mankind's fight,
With scientific research and might!

Dedicated to all scientists, doctors, clinicians and students,
who toil to make the world disease-free!