The GALNS gene provides instructions for producing an enzyme called N-acetylgalactosamine 6-sulfatase. This enzyme is located in lysosomes, which are compartments within cells that break down and recycle different types of molecules. N-acetylgalactosamine 6-sulfatase is involved in the breakdown of large sugar molecules called glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) or mucopolysaccharides. Specifically, this enzyme removes a chemical group known as a sulfate from a GAG called keratan sulfate. Keratan sulfate is particularly abundant in cartilage and the clear covering of the eye (cornea).
Other Names
chondroitinase; chondroitinsulfatase; FLJ17434; FLJ42844; FLJ98217; galactosamine (N-acetyl)-6-sulfate sulfatase; galactose-6-sulfate sulfatase; GALNAC6S; galNAc6S sulfatase; GALNS_HUMAN; GAS; MPS4A; N-acetylgalactosamine-6-sulfatase; N-acetylgalactosamine-6-sulfatase precursor; N-acetylgalactosamine-6-sulfate sulfatase
Related Genetics Topics
Identifiers
- NCBI Gene: 2588
- OMIM: 612222
Source: MedlinePlus Genetics, U.S. National Library of Medicine.
