Tay–Sachs disease is an autosomal recessive genetic disorder. In its most common variant (known as infantile Tay–Sachs disease), it causes a progressive deterioration of mental and physical abilities that commences around six months of age and usually results in death by the age of four. Tay–Sachs disease is caused by a genetic defect, normally inherited from both parents. The disease occurs when harmful quantities of cell membrane components known as gangliosides accumulate in the brain's nerve cells, eventually leading to the affected cells' premature death. Currently, there is no known cure or treatment.
