Mucopolysaccharidosis VI
N-Acetylgalactosamine-4-Sulfatase
Chondro-4-Sulfatase
Mucopolysaccharidoses
Mucopolysaccharidosis I
Mucopolysaccharidosis VII
Mucopolysaccharidosis III
Mucopolysaccharidosis II
Enzyme Replacement Therapy
Mucopolysaccharidosis IV
Iduronidase
Cat Diseases
Sulfatases
Iduronate Sulfatase
Cats
Chondroitinsulfatases
Glucuronidase
Maroteaux-lamy syndrome: five novel mutations and their structural localization. (1/74)
Maroteaux-Lamy syndrome (mucopolysaccharidosis type VI, MPS VI) is an autosomal recessive disorder due to the deficiency of the lysosomal enzyme N-acetylgalactosamine-4-sulfatase (arylsulfatase B, ASB). Mutation analysis in Maroteaux-Lamy syndrome resulted in the identification of approximately 40 molecular defects underlying a great genetic heterogeneity. Here we report five novel mutations in Italian subjects: S65F, P116H, R315Q, Q503X, P531R; each defect was confirmed by restriction enzyme or amplification refractory mutation system (ARMS) analysis. We also performed a three-dimensional (3-D) structure analysis of the alterations identified by us, and of an additional 22 point mutations reported by other groups, in an attempt to draw helpful information about their possible effects on protein conformation. (+info)Evaluation of fibroblast-mediated gene therapy in a feline model of mucopolysaccharidosis type VI. (2/74)
Fibroblast-mediated ex vivo gene therapy was evaluated in the N-acetylgalactosamine 4-sulfatase (4S) deficient mucopolysaccharidosis type VI (MPS VI) cat. Skin biopsies were obtained at birth from severely affected MPS VI kittens and used to initiate fibroblast outgrowths for retroviral transduction with the 4S cDNA. 4S gene expression in transduced cells was under the transcriptional control of the MoMLV long terminal repeat promoter or the cytomegalovirus (CMV) immediate-early promoter. Characterisation of gene-transduced fibroblasts demonstrated the cells to be over-expressing 4S activity. Twenty-four to forty million autologous, gene-corrected fibroblasts were implanted under the renal capsule of three MPS VI kittens at 8-16 weeks of age. Transient, low levels of 4S activity were detected in peripheral blood leukocytes shortly after implantation but were not detectable within 3-8 weeks' post-implantation. Long-term biochemical and clinical evaluation of these cats demonstrated identical disease progression to that previously described in untreated, clinically severe MPS VI cats. (+info)Autologous transplantation of retrovirally transduced bone marrow or neonatal blood cells into cats can lead to long-term engraftment in the absence of myeloablation. (3/74)
Autologous transplantation of retrovirally transduced bone marrow (BM) or neonatal blood cells was carried out on eight cats (ranging in age from 2 weeks to 12 months) with mucopolysaccharidosis type VI (MPS VI). The transducing vector contained the full-length cDNA encoding human arylsulfatase B (hASB), the enzymatic activity deficient in this lysosomal storage disorder. Following transplantation, the persistence of transduced cells and enzymatic expression were monitored for more than 2 years. Five of the cats received no myeloablative preconditioning, two cats received 370-390 cGy of total body irradiation (TBI), and one cat received 190 cGy TBI. Evidence of transduced cells, as judged by enzymatic activity and PCR detection of the provirus, was demonstrated in granulocytes, lymphocytes, or BM cells of the treated animals up to 31 months after transplantation. Radiation preconditioning was not required to achieve these results, nor were they dependent on the recipient's age. However, despite the long-term persistence of transduced cells, the levels of ASB activity in the transplanted animals was low, and no clinical improvements were detected. These data provide evidence for the long-term persistence of retrovirally transduced feline hematopoietic cells, and further documentation that engraftment of transduced cells can be achieved in the absence of myeloablation. Consistent with previous bone marrow transplantation studies, these results also suggest that to achieve clinical improvement of MPS VI, particularly in the skeletal system, high-level expression of ASB must be achieved in the treated animals and improved techniques for targeting the expressed enzyme to specific sites of pathology (e.g. chondrocytes) must be developed. (+info)Advantages of using same species enzyme for replacement therapy in a feline model of mucopolysaccharidosis type VI. (4/74)
In a feline model of mucopolysaccharidosis type VI (MPS VI), recombinant feline N-acetylgalactosamine-4-sulfatase (rf4S) administered at a dose of 1 mg/kg of body weight, altered the clinical course of the disease in two affected cats treated from birth. After 170 days of therapy, both cats were physically indistinguishable from normal cats with the exception of mild corneal clouding. Feline N-acetylgalactosamine-4-sulfatase was effective in reducing urinary glycosaminoglycan levels and lysosomal storage in all cell types examined except for corneal keratocytes and cartilage chondrocytes. In addition, skeletal pathology was nearly normalized as assessed by radiographic evidence and bone morphometric analysis. Comparison of results with a previous study in which recombinant human 4S (rh4S) was used at an equivalent dose and one 5 times higher indicated that rf4S had a more pronounced effect on reducing pathology than the same dose of rh4S, and in some instances such as bone pathology and lysosomal storage in aorta smooth muscle cells, it was as good as, or better than, the higher dose of rh4S. We conclude that in the feline MPS VI model the use of native or same species enzyme for enzyme replacement therapy has significant benefits. (+info)Report of a mucopolysaccharidosis occurring in Australian aborigines. (5/74)
The first 2 reported cases of a mucopolysaccharidosis occurring in an Australian aboriginal family are presented. Though these children had the characteristic morphological features of the Hurler syndrome, enzyme assay of cultured fibroblasts showed normal levels of alpha-L-iduronidase and decreased activity of arylsulphatase B. Thus, they represented the Hurler syndrome clinically, while they had the enzyme defect of the Maroteaux-Lamy syndrome, and they may represent a new severe form of the Maroteaux-Lamy syndrome. The parents of these children were first cousins. Though the children were not full blood aborigines, examination of the pedigree indicates that the gene originated in the common aboriginal family. (+info)Umbilical cord blood transplantation for Maroteaux-Lamy syndrome (mucopolysaccharidosis type VI). (6/74)
Severe Maroteaux-Lamy syndrome (mucopolysaccharidosis type VI) is usually fatal by early adulthood. Bone marrow transplantation is the only form of definitive enzyme replacement therapy available. A 5-year-old boy with Maroteaux-Lamy syndrome has successful recovery of bone marrow and enzymatic functions after umbilical cord blood transplant from his unaffected HLA-identical brother. Busulphan (16 mg/kg) and cyclophosphamide (200 mg/kg) were used as preparative chemotherapy with short methotrexate and long cyclosporin as prophylaxis against graft-versus-host disease (GVHD). A total of 6.08 x 10(7)/kg nucleated cells and 2.92 x 10(5)/kg CD34+ cells were transplanted with neutrophil engraftment achieved on day 26. There was no evidence of acute and chronic GVHD. Fifteen months after transplant, a normal level of N-acetylgalactosamine-4-sulphatase activity was achieved despite mixed chimerism. There was clinical improvement of hepatosplenomegaly, facial and skin features, joint mobility and resolution of suppurative middle ear effusion. He returned to school and continued to perform well in academic studies. We report here the first successful umbilical cord blood transplant as treatment of Maroteaux-Lamy syndrome. (+info)Clinical and laboratorial study of 19 cases of mucopolysaccharidoses. (7/74)
The mucopolysaccharidoses (MPS) are a heterogeneous group of inborn errors of lysosomal glycosaminoglycan (GAG) metabolism. The importance of this group of disorders among the inborn errors of metabolism led us to report 19 cases. METHOD: We performed clinical, radiological, and biochemical evaluations of the suspected patients, which allowed us to establish a definite diagnosis in 19 cases. RESULTS: Not all patients showed increased GAG levels in urine; enzyme assays should be performed in all cases with strong clinical suspicion. The diagnosis was made on average at the age of 48 months, and the 19 MPS cases, after a full clinical, radiological, and biochemical study, were classified as follows: Hurler - MPS I (1 case); Hunter - MPS II (2 cases); Sanfilippo - MPS III (2 cases); Morquio - MPS IV (4 cases); Maroteaux-Lamy - MPS VI (9 cases); and Sly - MPS VII (1 case). DISCUSSION: The high relative frequency of Maroteaux-Lamy disease contrasts with most reports in the literature and could express a population variability. (+info)Clinical and morphological features including expression of betaig-h3 and keratan sulphate proteoglycans in Maroteaux-Lamy syndrome type B and in normal cornea. (8/74)
AIM: To carry out a detailed morphological study of the cornea of a 16 year old female with a Maroteaux-Lamy syndrome (MLS). METHODS: Following a penetrating keratoplasty in July 1999, ultrastructural changes in the cornea were examined using electron microscopy. Proteoglycans were visualised using cuprolinic blue dye; and betaig-h3 and keratan sulphate were detected by immunoelectron microscopy. RESULTS: The epithelial cells were degenerate and contained apoptotic nuclei. Proteoglycans were present in epithelial cells, intercellular spaces, and in swollen desmosomes. An abnormally large quantity of proteoglycans was present throughout the stroma. Keratocytes throughout the stroma had no cell organelles, were vacuolated, and contained a large quantity of abnormal proteoglycans. Labelling for betaig-h3 was intense around electron lucent spaces in stroma. No labelling was seen in keratocytes or endothelial cells. In normal cornea, keratan sulphate labelling was regular throughout the stroma. In MLS VI type B cornea, keratan sulphate labelling was weak in the anterior stroma but very intense in the posterior stroma and in keratocyte lysosomes and vacuoles. CONCLUSION: A deficiency of aryl sulfatase B results in the deposition of keratan sulphate proteoglycan and other proteoglycans in lysosomes, causing the death of keratocytes and an abnormal build-up of proteoglycans in the stroma. This might be responsible for the lateral aggregation of collagen fibrils and impaired fibrillogenesis in MLS VI. Degenerate swollen keratocytes, together with gross changes in epithelial, stromal, and endothelial cells, would be expected to increase light scattering significantly in these corneas. (+info)Mucopolysaccharidosis VI (MPS VI), also known as Maroteaux-Lamy syndrome, is a rare genetic disorder caused by the deficiency of an enzyme called N-acetylgalactosamine 4-sulfatase. This enzyme is responsible for breaking down complex sugars called glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) or mucopolysaccharides, which are found in various tissues and organs throughout the body.
When the enzyme is deficient, GAGs accumulate within the lysosomes of cells, leading to cellular dysfunction and tissue damage. This accumulation results in a range of symptoms that can affect multiple organ systems, including the skeletal system, cardiovascular system, respiratory system, and central nervous system.
The signs and symptoms of MPS VI can vary widely among affected individuals, but common features include: coarse facial features, short stature, stiff joints, restricted mobility, recurrent respiratory infections, hearing loss, heart valve abnormalities, and clouding of the cornea. The severity of the disease can range from mild to severe, and life expectancy is generally reduced in individuals with more severe forms of the disorder.
MPS VI is inherited as an autosomal recessive trait, which means that an individual must inherit two copies of the mutated gene (one from each parent) to develop the condition.
N-Acetylgalactosamine-4-Sulfatase is an enzyme that is responsible for breaking down complex carbohydrates in the body. Its specific function is to remove a sulfate group from a particular type of sugar molecule called N-acetylgalactosamine-4-sulfate, which is found on certain proteoglycans (large, complex sugars attached to proteins) in the body.
This enzyme plays an important role in the normal functioning of cells and tissues, particularly in the development and maintenance of bones, cartilage, and other connective tissues. Deficiencies in this enzyme can lead to a rare genetic disorder called Morquio A syndrome (also known as MPS IVA), which is characterized by skeletal abnormalities, short stature, and other health problems.
Chondro-4-sulfatase is an enzyme that belongs to the family of hydrolases, specifically those acting on ester bonds in sulfuric acid esters. It is responsible for catalyzing the hydrolysis of the 4-sulfate ester group from N-acetylgalactosamine 4-sulfate residues found in chondroitin 4-sulfate, a type of glycosaminoglycan (GAG) that is abundant in connective tissues such as cartilage.
Chondroitin 4-sulfate plays important roles in the structure and function of the extracellular matrix, including regulating cell adhesion, migration, and differentiation. The action of chondro-4-sulfatase helps to control the balance between sulfated and non-sulfated GAG chains, which is critical for maintaining normal tissue homeostasis.
Defects in chondro-4-sulfatase activity can lead to a rare genetic disorder called chondrodysplasia punctata type 1B (CDPX1B), also known as multiple sulfatase deficiency (MSD). This condition is characterized by skeletal abnormalities, developmental delay, and other neurological symptoms.
Mucopolysaccharidoses (MPS) are a group of inherited metabolic disorders caused by the deficiency of specific enzymes needed to break down complex sugars called glycosaminoglycans (GAGs or mucopolysaccharides). As a result, these GAGs accumulate in various tissues and organs, leading to progressive cellular damage and multi-organ dysfunction. There are several types of MPS, including Hurler syndrome, Hunter syndrome, Sanfilippo syndrome, Morquio syndrome, Maroteaux-Lamy syndrome, and Sly syndrome, each resulting from a deficiency in one of the eleven different enzymes involved in GAGs metabolism. The clinical presentation, severity, and prognosis vary among the types but commonly include features such as developmental delay, coarse facial features, skeletal abnormalities, hearing loss, heart problems, and reduced life expectancy.
Mucopolysaccharidosis I (MPS I) is a rare genetic disorder caused by the deficiency of an enzyme called alpha-L-iduronidase. This enzyme is responsible for breaking down complex sugars called glycosaminoglycans (GAGs), also known as mucopolysaccharides, in the body.
When the enzyme is deficient, GAGs accumulate in various tissues and organs, leading to a range of symptoms that can affect different parts of the body, including the skeletal system, heart, respiratory system, eyes, and central nervous system. There are three subtypes of MPS I: Hurler syndrome (the most severe form), Hurler-Scheie syndrome (an intermediate form), and Scheie syndrome (the least severe form).
The symptoms and severity of MPS I can vary widely depending on the specific subtype, with Hurler syndrome typically causing more significant health problems and a shorter life expectancy than the other two forms. Treatment options for MPS I include enzyme replacement therapy, bone marrow transplantation, and various supportive therapies to manage symptoms and improve quality of life.
Mucopolysaccharidosis (MPS) VII, also known as Sly syndrome, is a rare genetic disorder caused by the deficiency of the enzyme beta-glucuronidase. This enzyme is responsible for breaking down complex sugars called glycosaminoglycans (GAGs), or mucopolysaccharides, in the body. When this enzyme is not present in sufficient amounts, GAGs accumulate in various tissues and organs, leading to progressive damage.
The symptoms of MPS VII can vary widely, but often include coarse facial features, short stature, skeletal abnormalities, hearing loss, heart problems, and intellectual disability. Some individuals with MPS VII may also have cloudy corneas, enlarged liver and spleen, and difficulty breathing due to airway obstruction. The severity of the condition can range from mild to severe, and life expectancy is often reduced in those with more severe symptoms.
MPS VII is inherited in an autosomal recessive manner, which means that an individual must inherit two copies of the mutated gene (one from each parent) in order to develop the condition. Treatment for MPS VII typically involves enzyme replacement therapy, which can help to slow down the progression of the disease and improve some symptoms. However, there is currently no cure for this condition.
Mucopolysaccharidosis III, also known as Sanfilippo syndrome, is a genetic disorder caused by the deficiency of specific enzymes needed to break down complex sugar molecules called glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) or mucopolysaccharides. This results in an accumulation of these substances in various tissues and organs, leading to progressive damage.
There are four main types of Mucopolysaccharidosis III (A, B, C, and D), each caused by a deficiency in one of the following enzymes: heparan N-sulfatase (type A), alpha-N-acetylglucosaminidase (type B), acetyl-CoAlpha-glucosaminide acetyltransferase (type C), or N-acetylglucosamine 6-sulfatase (type D).
The symptoms of Mucopolysaccharidosis III typically become apparent between the ages of 2 and 6, and may include developmental delays, hyperactivity, behavioral problems, sleep disturbances, coarse facial features, hirsutism, hepatosplenomegaly (enlarged liver and spleen), and joint stiffness. Over time, individuals with Mucopolysaccharidosis III may experience a decline in cognitive abilities, loss of previously acquired skills, and mobility issues.
Currently, there is no cure for Mucopolysaccharidosis III, and treatment is focused on managing the symptoms and improving quality of life. Enzyme replacement therapy, gene therapy, and stem cell transplantation are some of the experimental treatments being investigated for this condition.
Mucopolysaccharidosis II (MPS II), also known as Hunter syndrome, is a rare X-linked recessive genetic disorder caused by the deficiency of an enzyme called iduronate sulfatase. This enzyme is responsible for breaking down complex sugars called glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) or mucopolysaccharides in the body.
When this enzyme is missing or not functioning properly, GAGs accumulate in various tissues and organs, leading to progressive cellular damage and organ dysfunction. The symptoms of MPS II can vary widely but often include developmental delays, coarse facial features, hearing loss, airway obstruction, heart problems, enlarged liver and spleen, and joint stiffness.
The severity of the disease can range from mild to severe, with some individuals experiencing only moderate symptoms while others may have significant intellectual disability and life-threatening complications. Treatment options for MPS II include enzyme replacement therapy (ERT) and hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT), but there is currently no cure for the disease.
Enzyme Replacement Therapy (ERT) is a medical treatment approach in which functional copies of a missing or deficient enzyme are introduced into the body to compensate for the lack of enzymatic activity caused by a genetic disorder. This therapy is primarily used to manage lysosomal storage diseases, such as Gaucher disease, Fabry disease, Pompe disease, and Mucopolysaccharidoses (MPS), among others.
In ERT, the required enzyme is produced recombinantly in a laboratory using biotechnological methods. The purified enzyme is then administered to the patient intravenously at regular intervals. Once inside the body, the exogenous enzyme is taken up by cells, particularly those affected by the disorder, and helps restore normal cellular functions by participating in essential metabolic pathways.
ERT aims to alleviate disease symptoms, slow down disease progression, improve quality of life, and increase survival rates for patients with lysosomal storage disorders. However, it does not cure the underlying genetic defect responsible for the enzyme deficiency.
Mucopolysaccharidosis IV (MPS IV), also known as Morquio Syndrome, is a rare genetic disorder that belongs to the family of diseases called mucopolysaccharidoses. It is characterized by the accumulation of glycosaminoglycans (GAGs or mucopolysaccharides) in various tissues and organs due to deficiencies in specific enzymes needed to break down these complex carbohydrates.
There are two types of MPS IV: Type A and Type B, which are caused by deficiencies in different enzymes (GALNS and B3GALNT1, respectively). Both types result in similar symptoms but may vary in severity. The accumulation of GAGs primarily affects the bones, cartilage, eyes, ears, heart, and respiratory system.
Common features of MPS IV include:
* Dwarfism with short trunk and long limbs
* Progressive skeletal abnormalities such as kyphosis (hunchback), scoliosis (curvature of the spine), pectus carinatum (protruding breastbone), and joint laxity or stiffness
* Coarse facial features
* Corneal clouding
* Hearing loss
* Heart valve abnormalities
* Respiratory issues
* Hypermobile and dislocated joints
* Carpal tunnel syndrome
* Spinal cord compression
Treatment for MPS IV primarily focuses on managing symptoms, improving quality of life, and preventing complications. Enzyme replacement therapy (ERT) is available for Type B but not for Type A. Other treatments may include physical therapy, surgery, and medications to address specific symptoms.
Iduronidase is a type of enzyme that helps break down complex sugars called glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) in the body. Specifically, iduronidase is responsible for breaking down a type of GAG called dermatan sulfate and heparan sulfate.
Deficiency or absence of this enzyme can lead to a genetic disorder known as Mucopolysaccharidosis Type I (MPS I), which is characterized by the accumulation of GAGs in various tissues and organs, leading to progressive damage and impairment. There are two forms of MPS I: Hurler syndrome, which is the severe form, and Scheie syndrome, which is the milder form.
Iduronidase replacement therapy is available for the treatment of MPS I, in which the missing enzyme is delivered directly to the patient's body through intravenous infusion. This helps break down the accumulated GAGs and prevent further damage to the tissues and organs.
There are many diseases that can affect cats, and the specific medical definitions for these conditions can be quite detailed and complex. However, here are some common categories of feline diseases and examples of each:
1. Infectious diseases: These are caused by viruses, bacteria, fungi, or parasites. Examples include:
* Feline panleukopenia virus (FPV), also known as feline parvovirus, which can cause severe gastrointestinal symptoms and death in kittens.
* Feline calicivirus (FCV), which can cause upper respiratory symptoms such as sneezing and nasal discharge.
* Feline leukemia virus (FeLV), which can suppress the immune system and lead to a variety of secondary infections and diseases.
* Bacterial infections, such as those caused by Pasteurella multocida or Bartonella henselae, which can cause abscesses or other symptoms.
2. Neoplastic diseases: These are cancerous conditions that can affect various organs and tissues in cats. Examples include:
* Lymphoma, which is a common type of cancer in cats that can affect the lymph nodes, spleen, liver, and other organs.
* Fibrosarcoma, which is a type of soft tissue cancer that can arise from fibrous connective tissue.
* Squamous cell carcinoma, which is a type of skin cancer that can be caused by exposure to sunlight or tobacco smoke.
3. Degenerative diseases: These are conditions that result from the normal wear and tear of aging or other factors. Examples include:
* Osteoarthritis, which is a degenerative joint disease that can cause pain and stiffness in older cats.
* Dental disease, which is a common condition in cats that can lead to tooth loss, gum inflammation, and other problems.
* Heart disease, such as hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM), which is a thickening of the heart muscle that can lead to congestive heart failure.
4. Hereditary diseases: These are conditions that are inherited from a cat's parents and are present at birth or develop early in life. Examples include:
* Polycystic kidney disease (PKD), which is a genetic disorder that causes cysts to form in the kidneys and can lead to kidney failure.
* Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM), which can be inherited as an autosomal dominant trait in some cats.
* Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), which is a group of genetic disorders that cause degeneration of the retina and can lead to blindness.
Sulfatases are a group of enzymes that play a crucial role in the metabolism of sulfated steroids, glycosaminoglycans (GAGs), and other sulfated molecules. These enzymes catalyze the hydrolysis of sulfate groups from these substrates, converting them into their respective unsulfated forms.
The human genome encodes for several different sulfatases, each with specificity towards particular types of sulfated substrates. For instance, some sulfatases are responsible for removing sulfate groups from steroid hormones and neurotransmitters, while others target GAGs like heparan sulfate, dermatan sulfate, and keratan sulfate.
Defects in sulfatase enzymes can lead to various genetic disorders, such as multiple sulfatase deficiency (MSD), X-linked ichthyosis, and mucopolysaccharidosis (MPS) type IIIC (Sanfilippo syndrome type C). These conditions are characterized by the accumulation of sulfated molecules in different tissues, resulting in progressive damage to multiple organs and systems.
Iduronate sulfatase is an enzyme that plays a crucial role in the breakdown and recycling of complex sugars called glycosaminoglycans (GAGs). These GAGs are important components of various tissues, including connective tissues, bones, and cartilage.
Iduronate sulfatase is specifically responsible for breaking down a type of GAG known as dermatan sulfate and heparan sulfate by removing sulfate groups from specific sugar molecules in these GAGs. This enzyme is located in the lysosomes, which are membrane-bound organelles within cells that break down and recycle various materials.
Deficiency of iduronate sulfatase leads to a genetic disorder called Mucopolysaccharidosis Type II (MPS II), also known as Hunter syndrome. In this condition, the lack of functional iduronate sulfatase enzyme results in an accumulation of dermatan sulfate and heparan sulfate in various tissues and organs, leading to progressive damage and a range of symptoms, including developmental delays, coarse facial features, hearing loss, heart problems, and joint stiffness.
"Cat" is a common name that refers to various species of small carnivorous mammals that belong to the family Felidae. The domestic cat, also known as Felis catus or Felis silvestris catus, is a popular pet and companion animal. It is a subspecies of the wildcat, which is found in Europe, Africa, and Asia.
Domestic cats are often kept as pets because of their companionship, playful behavior, and ability to hunt vermin. They are also valued for their ability to provide emotional support and therapy to people. Cats are obligate carnivores, which means that they require a diet that consists mainly of meat to meet their nutritional needs.
Cats are known for their agility, sharp senses, and predatory instincts. They have retractable claws, which they use for hunting and self-defense. Cats also have a keen sense of smell, hearing, and vision, which allow them to detect prey and navigate their environment.
In medical terms, cats can be hosts to various parasites and diseases that can affect humans and other animals. Some common feline diseases include rabies, feline leukemia virus (FeLV), feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV), and toxoplasmosis. It is important for cat owners to keep their pets healthy and up-to-date on vaccinations and preventative treatments to protect both the cats and their human companions.
Chondroitin sulfatases are a group of enzymes that break down chondroitin sulfate, which is a type of glycosaminoglycan (GAG) found in connective tissues such as cartilage, bone, and skin. Glycosaminoglycans are long, complex chains of sugars that help provide structure, hydration, and elasticity to these tissues.
Chondroitin sulfate is composed of alternating units of glucuronic acid and N-acetylgalactosamine, with various sulfate groups attached at different positions along the chain. Chondroitin sulfatases cleave specific bonds within this structure to help regulate the turnover and remodeling of GAGs in tissues.
There are several types of chondroitin sulfatases (designated as chondroitin sulfatase A, B, C, D, etc.), each with distinct substrate specificities and cellular localizations. Defects in these enzymes can lead to various genetic disorders, such as skeletal dysplasias and neurodegenerative diseases, due to the accumulation of unprocessed or partially degraded chondroitin sulfate in tissues.
Glucuronidase is an enzyme that catalyzes the hydrolysis of glucuronic acid from various substrates, including molecules that have been conjugated with glucuronic acid as part of the detoxification process in the body. This enzyme plays a role in the breakdown and elimination of certain drugs, toxins, and endogenous compounds, such as bilirubin. It is found in various tissues and organisms, including humans, bacteria, and insects. In clinical contexts, glucuronidase activity may be measured to assess liver function or to identify the presence of certain bacterial infections.
Glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) are long, unbranched polysaccharides composed of repeating disaccharide units. They are a major component of the extracellular matrix and connective tissues in the body. GAGs are negatively charged due to the presence of sulfate and carboxyl groups, which allows them to attract positively charged ions and water molecules, contributing to their ability to retain moisture and maintain tissue hydration and elasticity.
GAGs can be categorized into four main groups: heparin/heparan sulfate, chondroitin sulfate/dermatan sulfate, keratan sulfate, and hyaluronic acid. These different types of GAGs have varying structures and functions in the body, including roles in cell signaling, inflammation, and protection against enzymatic degradation.
Heparin is a highly sulfated form of heparan sulfate that is found in mast cells and has anticoagulant properties. Chondroitin sulfate and dermatan sulfate are commonly found in cartilage and contribute to its resiliency and ability to withstand compressive forces. Keratan sulfate is found in corneas, cartilage, and bone, where it plays a role in maintaining the structure and function of these tissues. Hyaluronic acid is a large, nonsulfated GAG that is widely distributed throughout the body, including in synovial fluid, where it provides lubrication and shock absorption for joints.