MPS Society Australia
To value, nurture and support those affected by Mucopolysaccharide and related diseases.
Supporting Families Across Australia
The Australian MPS Society is dedicated to supporting individuals and families living with MPS and related diseases.
What is MPS
The mucopolysaccharidoses (MPS) are a group of rare inherited (genetic) disorders that affect both children and adults.
People with MPS do not produce enough of a specific enzyme, or the enzyme does not work properly. Enzymes are natural proteins that help the body break down and recycle substances it no longer needs.Â
One of these substances is mucopolysaccharides, now more commonly called glycosaminoglycans (GAGs). Without the correct enzyme, GAGs cannot be broken down completely.Â
Instead, they build up inside the body’s cells over time. This gradual build-up causes progressive damage throughout the body.Â
The effects vary from person to person but may affect growth, appearance, development, mobility and the function of many organs and body systems.Â
Each type of MPS is caused by a deficiency of a different enzyme.Â
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