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URL of this page: https://medlineplus.gov/genetics/gene/gusb/

GUSB gene

glucuronidase beta

Normal Function

The GUSB gene provides instructions for producing an enzyme called beta-glucuronidase (β-glucuronidase). This enzyme is located in lysosomes, compartments within cells that digest and recycle different types of molecules. β-glucuronidase is involved in the breakdown of large molecules called glycosaminoglycans (GAGs). GAGs are composed of sugar molecules that are linked together to form a long string. To break down these large molecules, individual sugars are removed one at a time from one end of the molecule. β-glucuronidase is involved in the break down of three types of GAGs: dermatan sulfate, heparan sulfate, and chondroitin sulfate. This enzyme removes a sugar called glucuronic acid when it is at the end of the GAG chain.

Health Conditions Related to Genetic Changes

Mucopolysaccharidosis type VII

At least 55 mutations in the GUSB gene have been found to cause mucopolysaccharidosis type VII (MPS VII). Most of these mutations change single DNA building blocks (nucleotides) in the gene. All of the mutations that cause MPS VII reduce or eliminate the function of β-glucuronidase.

The shortage (deficiency) of β-glucuronidase leads to the accumulation of dermatan sulfate, heparan sulfate, and chondroitin sulfate within lysosomes in virtually all tissues and organs. The buildup of these GAGs increases the size of the lysosomes, which is why many tissues and organs are enlarged in MPS VII. Researchers believe that the accumulated GAGs may also interfere with the functions of other proteins inside the lysosomes and disrupt many normal functions of cells.

More About This Health Condition

Other Names for This Gene

  • beta-D-glucuronidase
  • beta-G1
  • beta-glucuronidase
  • beta-glucuronidase precursor
  • BG
  • BGLR_HUMAN
  • FLJ39445
  • glucuronidase, beta
  • MPS7

Additional Information & Resources

Tests Listed in the Genetic Testing Registry

Scientific Articles on PubMed

Catalog of Genes and Diseases from OMIM

Gene and Variant Databases

References

  • Storch S, Wittenstein B, Islam R, Ullrich K, Sly WS, Braulke T. Mutational analysis in longest known survivor of mucopolysaccharidosis type VII. Hum Genet. 2003 Feb;112(2):190-4. doi: 10.1007/s00439-002-0849-5. Epub 2002 Nov 5. Citation on PubMed
  • Tomatsu S, Montano AM, Dung VC, Grubb JH, Sly WS. Mutations and polymorphisms in GUSB gene in mucopolysaccharidosis VII (Sly Syndrome). Hum Mutat. 2009 Apr;30(4):511-9. doi: 10.1002/humu.20828. Citation on PubMed or Free article on PubMed Central
  • Vervoort R, Islam MR, Sly WS, Zabot MT, Kleijer WJ, Chabas A, Fensom A, Young EP, Liebaers I, Lissens W. Molecular analysis of patients with beta-glucuronidase deficiency presenting as hydrops fetalis or as early mucopolysaccharidosis VII. Am J Hum Genet. 1996 Mar;58(3):457-71. Citation on PubMed or Free article on PubMed Central

The information on this site should not be used as a substitute for professional medical care or advice. Contact a health care provider if you have questions about your health.