scrapie agent

The scrapie agent is a type of infectious agent that causes a fatal brain disease called scrapie in sheep and goats. It is classified as a prion, which is a misfolded protein that can induce normal proteins in the brain to also misfold. This process damages brain tissue, leading to neurological symptoms like itching, behavioral changes, and loss of coordination. Unlike bacteria or viruses, prions contain no genetic material and are extremely resistant to heat and disinfection. The scrapie agent spreads through contaminated feed, environment, or contact with infected animals, and it is a significant concern for agricultural health and biosecurity.