What type of genetic inheritance pattern is present in Metachromatic leukodystrophy?

Metachromatic leukodystrophy is characterized by the accumulation of sulfatides due to a deficiency of the enzyme arylsulfatase A. This deficiency leads to a progressive demyelination of the central and peripheral nervous system, resulting in various neurological symptoms.

The inheritance pattern of Metachromatic leukodystrophy is autosomal recessive, meaning that an individual must inherit two copies of the mutated gene, one from each parent, to express the disease. This pattern is typical for many lysosomal storage disorders, where both parents are carriers and typically do not display symptoms themselves, as they have one normal allele that is sufficient to produce enough enzyme activity.

In contrast, autosomal dominant inheritance would require only one mutated gene from a parent to express the condition, which is not the case for Metachromatic leukodystrophy. X-linked recessive inheritance would mean that the gene is located on the X chromosome and primarily affects males, with females typically being carriers. Multifactorial inheritance suggests that multiple genes and environmental factors contribute to the phenotype, which does not apply to the straightforward enzymatic deficiency seen in this condition. Thus, the correct answer reflects the genetic basis of this specific disorder.