arylsulfatase

A group of enzymes active in the hydrolysis of sulfates and the metabolism of mucopolysaccharides; found in liver, pancreas, kidneys and immature monocytes. Several species of molluscs and Aerobacter spp. serve as commercial sources of the enzyme which is used in analytic endocrinology.

• a. A deficiency — see metachromatic leukodystrophy.
• a. B deficiency — is the cause of mucopolysaccharidosis VI which occurs in humans and cats. Called also Maroteaux–Lamy syndrome.