1. An enzyme that breaks down certain carbohydrate compounds in cells, particularly those containing hexosamine sugars; important in cellular metabolism and lysosomal function.
Usage: technical; biochemistry; medical
2. Any of several isoforms (such as hexosaminidase A or B) that catalyze the hydrolysis of N-acetyl-hexosamines; deficiency of hexosaminidase A causes Tay-Sachs disease.
Usage: medical; genetics

Examples

• Hexosaminidase is a lysosomal enzyme essential for breaking down certain lipids and carbohydrates.
• Tay-Sachs disease results from a deficiency of hexosaminidase A, leading to neurological damage.
• The hexosaminidase test can help diagnose certain genetic metabolic disorders.
• Hexosaminidase levels are measured in blood tests to screen for lysosomal storage diseases.
• Different tissues express varying amounts of hexosaminidase isoforms depending on their metabolic needs.