neuraminidase /no͝or′əmē″nədās/ , an enzyme that catalyzes the cleavage of N-acetyl neuraminic acid from mucopolysaccharides. A hereditary deficiency of the enzyme causes sialidosis and is associated with galactogialidosis; it is characterized by cognitive impairment and skeletal changes, especially dysotosis multiplex. Also called sialidase. See also sialidosis.
