Prion Protein (PrP)
Prion protein (PrP) is a type of protein found in the cells of the brain and other tissues. Normally, it helps with various cellular functions. However, in certain diseases, it can misfold into an abnormal shape. This misfolded form can induce other normal proteins to also misfold, leading to a chain reaction. This process is associated with serious neurodegenerative disorders, like Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease and mad cow disease. Unlike bacteria or viruses, prions lack genetic material, and they can cause disease by promoting this abnormal folding, resulting in damage to the brain and nervous system.
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Prion protein (PrP) is a type of protein found in the brain and other tissues. Normally, it has a harmless structure. However, when it misfolds into an abnormal shape, it can cause serious diseases, such as Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease. These misfolded proteins can trigger other normal PrP proteins to also misfold, leading to brain damage. Prion diseases are unique because they can be infectious and are not caused by bacteria or viruses. They are difficult to diagnose and currently have no cure, making them a significant concern in medicine and public health.