Tracking Prions

Infectious proteins known as prions have been identified as the cause of “mad cow” disease (BSE). The culprits are “incorrectly folded” proteins that can “infect” healthy proteins. The molecular bases for such prion diseases are not yet fully understood. Why are some proteins infectious while others are not?

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<p><a href="http://www.physorg.com/news132897322.html">Tracking Prions</a></p> <p>Infectious proteins known as prions have been identified as the cause of “mad cow” disease (BSE). The culprits are “incorrectly folded” proteins that can “infect” healthy proteins. The molecular bases for such prion diseases are not yet fully understood. Why are some proteins infectious while others are not?</p>