TSEs (transmissible spongiform encephalopathies)

Transmissible spongiform encephalopathies (TSEs) are a group of rare, fatal brain diseases caused by abnormal proteins called prions. These prions induce healthy proteins in the brain to fold improperly, leading to brain damage and a sponge-like appearance of brain tissue. TSEs can spread through contaminated food, medical procedures, or by inheritance. Common examples include Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease in humans and mad cow disease in cattle. They progress rapidly, causing neurological decline, mental deterioration, and ultimately death. There are no effective treatments, making prevention and strict control measures crucial.