Chapter 8 : Prions Flashcards
1
Q
What disease would manifest in the people of Papua New Guinea from cannibalistic rituals?
A
kuru
2
Q
What are prions?
A
host-derived glycoproteins that lack a nucleic acid genome. They are extremely resistant to disinfection procedures
3
Q
What diseases in humans are caused by prions?
A
kuru, CJD, vCJD, BSE
4
Q
How can prions be transmitted?
A
usually by ingestion of contaminated tissues, but can occur via medical procedures (attaches to stainless steel)