From which phrase is the term “prions” derived?
From which phrase is the term “prions” derived?
Answer
The term “prions” is derived from the phrase “proteinaceous infectious particles.” It was coined by Stanley Prusiner in 1982 to describe these unique infectious agents that are composed solely of protein and are capable of causing disease. The term emphasizes the protein-based nature of prions and their role in transmitting infectious disease without the involvement of nucleic acids.