Genzyme's products address serious unmet medical needs, with special expertise in rare genetic disorders. Here's an introduction to our main areas of focus.

Lysosomal storage disorders (LSDs) are a group of more than 40 diseases. Each is caused by a genetic problem that results in the deficiency or malfunction of particular enzymes needed to remove waste material from cells. These waste molecules then accumulate, or are stored, in cell lysosomes (smaller compartments within the cells), disrupting cell function and causing a variety of symptoms. All LSDs are progressive, meaning that without treatment, they worsen over time. Enzyme replacement therapy is currently available to address the underlying cause of some LSDs.

With LSDs, cells swell as waste builds up in the lysosomes

Each LSD is caused by a different genetic problem and enzyme deficiency. Because these disorders are extremely rare – even the most common, Gaucher disease, only affects an estimated 10,000 people worldwide – it can be difficult to find information about them. Genzyme has several LSD treatments and is one of the world's leading authorities on LSDs. We produce a variety of materials, both in print and online, to educate the public about these rare but serious diseases.

Following are some more details about the LSDs that Genzyme currently treats.