Gangliosidosis (GM2 Type II) – Cat All Breeds
Gangliosidosis (GM2 Type II) is a fatal, progressive neurodegenerative disease caused by mutations in the HEXA and HEXB genes. These mutations lead to a deficiency of an enzyme that is crucial for breaking down ganglioside GM2 in cells, especially in the brain. As a result, gangliosides build up in nerve cells, causing their dysfunction. This buildup leads to worsening neurological damage and severe symptoms over time. Here we test for an autosomal recessive mutation in HEXB in all cat breeds.