Mucopolysaccharidoses (MPS), commonly referred to as MPS, are a group of seven often overlooked genetic lysosomal storage disorders caused by the body’s inability to produce specific enzymes. Mucolipidoses (ML) are a separate but similar group of disorders. Normally, the body uses enzymes to break down and recycle materials in cells. In individuals with MPS and related diseases, the missing or insufficient enzyme prevents that proper recycling process, resulting in the storage of material in virtually every cell of the body. As a result, cells do not perform properly and may cause progressive damage throughout the body, including the heart, bones, joints, respiratory system, and nervous system. While the disease may not be apparent at birth, signs and symptoms develop with age as more cells become damaged by the accumulation of cell deposits.
