What is MPS I?
MPS I is a mucopolysaccharide disease also called Hurler, Hurler-Scheie and Scheie syndrome. Hurler takes its name from Gertrude Hurler, the doctor who described a boy and girl with the condition in 1919. In 1962, Dr. Scheie, a consultant ophthalmologist, wrote about patients who were more mildly affected. Individuals who do not fit the severe or mild ends of the disease were said to have Hurler/Scheie. The specific disease names have been replaced with the designations attenuated (diminished severity) and severe MPS I. MPS I has a wide range of symptoms that vary in severity and can be managed and treated with enzyme replacement therapies. There is no cure for MPS I.
What Causes This Disease?
Mucopolysaccharides are chains of sugar molecules used to build connective tissues in the body.
“muco” refers to the thick jelly-like consistency of the molecules
“poly” means many
“saccharide” is a general term for a sugar molecule
The body constantly replaces used materials and breaks them down for disposal. MPS I patients are missing the enzyme alpha-L-iduronidase, which is essential in breaking down the mucopolysaccharides dermatan sulfate and heparan sulfate. These materials remain stored in the body’s cells, causing progressive damage. Babies may show little sign of the disease, but as cells sustain damage, symptoms start to appear.
To request more information about MPS and related LSD’s please contact us.
