How do prions, which are misfolded proteins, infect organisms?

Sourav PanSeptember 6, 2024

Answered

Prions infect organisms by introducing misfolded proteins into the host. These misfolded proteins, which are resistant to degradation and can aggregate into amyloid plaques, induce the conversion of normal prion proteins (PrP^C) into the pathological prion form (PrP^Sc). As this misfolding spreads, it leads to the accumulation of abnormal prions, disrupting brain function and causing neurodegenerative symptoms. The disease progresses as more and more normal proteins are converted, leading to extensive brain damage and eventual loss of neurological function.