Misfolded protein response

The misfolded protein response is a biological mechanism that detects and addresses proteins that have not folded into their proper shapes. Proteins must fold correctly to function properly in the body, and when they don't, they can cause cellular stress and diseases. Cells activate a protective response to either refold these misfolded proteins, degrade them, or, if damage is severe, initiate cell death. This process is crucial for maintaining health and preventing conditions like neurodegenerative diseases, where misfolded proteins accumulate and disrupt normal cellular function.