Question

What are metabolic diseases?

Answer 1

Inherited Metabolic Disorders Inherited metabolic disorders are genetic conditions that result in metabolism problems. Most people with inherited metabolic disorders have a defective gene that results in an enzyme deficiency. There are hundreds of different genetic metabolic disorders, and their symptoms, treatments, and prognoses vary widely. What Is Metabolism? Metabolism refers to all the chemical reactions taking place in the body to convert or use energy. A few major examples of metabolism include: Breaking down the carbohydrates, proteins, and fats in food to release energy. Transforming excess nitrogen into waste products excreted in urine. Breaking down or converting chemicals into other substances and transporting them inside cells. Metabolism is an organized but chaotic chemical assembly line. Raw materials, half-finished products, and waste materials are constantly being used, produced, transported, and excreted. The "workers" on the assembly line are enzymes and other proteins that make chemical reactions happen. Causes of Inherited Metabolic Disorders In most inherited metabolic disorders, a single enzyme is either not produced by the body at all or is produced in a form that doesn't work. The missing enzyme is like an absentee worker on the assembly line. Depending on that enzyme's job, its absence means toxic chemicals may build up, or an essential product may not be produced.