Hexb - hexosaminidase B

Enables beta-N-acetylhexosaminidase activity and identical protein binding activity. Involved in several processes, including astrocyte cell migration; positive regulation of transcription by RNA polymerase II; and regulation of cell shape. Acts upstream of or within several processes, including ganglioside catabolic process; male courtship behavior; and penetration of zona pellucida. Located in several cellular components, including extracellular space; lysosome; and secretory granule. Is expressed in several structures, including endocrine gland; eye; genitourinary system; nervous system; and sternum. Used to study Sandhoff disease. Human ortholog(s) of this gene implicated in Sandhoff disease and spinal muscular atrophy. Orthologous to human HEXB (hexosaminidase subunit beta). [provided by Alliance of Genome Resources, Apr 2022]