Definition
Mucopolysaccharides are long chains of sugar molecules that are found throughout the body, often in mucus and in fluid around the joints. They are more commonly called glycosaminoglycans.
Alternative Names
Glycosaminoglycans; GAG
Information
When the body cannot break down mucopolysaccharides, a condition called mucopolysaccharidoses (MPS) occurs. MPS refers to a group of inherited disorders of metabolism. People with MPS do not have any, or enough of, a substance (
Forms of MPS include:
-
Hunter syndrome -
Hurler syndrome -
Sanfilippo syndrome -
Scheie syndrome -
Morquio syndrome
These conditions cause mucopolysaccharides to build up in body tissues. This can damage organs, including the heart. Symptoms can range from mild to severe and may include:
- Abnormal features of the face
- Bone, cartilage, and connective tissue deformities
-
Intellectual disability
