disease is an inherited condition characterized by the absence of a single lysosomal enzyme called hex a
Tay-Sachs disease An inherited condition characterized by the absence of a single lysosomal enzyme called Hex A, which normally breaks down a membrane glycolipid called ganglioside G_M2 that is especially prevalent in nerve cells; usually occurs in children of Ashkenazi (eastern European Jewish) descent and is characterized by seizures and muscle rigidity.