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mucopolysaccharide

Mucopolysaccharide is a long, unbranched polysaccharide composed of repeating disaccharide units that typically include an amino sugar and a uronic acid. These molecules are highly negatively charged due to sulfate and carboxyl groups and are best known as glycosaminoglycans (GAGs). They are key components of the extracellular matrix and are often covalently attached to core proteins to form proteoglycans. Hyaluronic acid is a notable exception, as it is non-sulfated and not bound to a core protein.

Most mucopolysaccharides are sulfated and organized into linear chains that contribute to the structural and hydrated

Clinically, abnormalities in the degradation or metabolism of mucopolysaccharides underlie the mucopolysaccharidoses (MPS), a group of

See also glycosaminoglycans, proteoglycans, mucopolysaccharidoses.

properties
of
connective
tissues
such
as
cartilage,
skin,
and
the
barrow
of
joints.
When
attached
to
proteins,
they
form
proteoglycans
that
resist
compression
and
facilitate
cell
signaling
by
binding
growth
factors
and
cytokines.
Hyaluronic
acid,
while
a
GAG,
functions
primarily
as
a
lubricant
and
space-filler
in
synovial
fluid
and
the
vitreous
humor,
and
it
is
not
covalently
linked
to
a
protein.
lysosomal
storage
disorders.
These
conditions
lead
to
accumulation
of
GAGs
in
tissues,
causing
skeletal
abnormalities,
organomegaly,
and
developmental
issues.
Therapies
may
include
enzyme
replacement
and
supportive
care,
depending
on
the
specific
disorder.