Prions are infectious agents consisting only of what type of biomolecule?

Prepare for the AALAS LATG Test. Study with interactive flashcards and detailed multiple-choice questions, each with hints and explanations. Achieve your certification goals!

Multiple Choice

Prions are infectious agents consisting only of what type of biomolecule?

Explanation:
Prions are infectious agents composed entirely of protein. They are misfolded versions of a normal brain protein (PrP) and, unlike viruses or bacteria, contain no DNA or RNA. Their infectivity comes from their abnormal shape, which can convert normal PrP into the misfolded form—propagating disease without any nucleic acids. This protein-only nature is what makes carbohydrate- or nucleic-acid-based explanations incorrect, and it explains why prions are resistant to many standard inactivation methods that target nucleic acids.

Prions are infectious agents composed entirely of protein. They are misfolded versions of a normal brain protein (PrP) and, unlike viruses or bacteria, contain no DNA or RNA. Their infectivity comes from their abnormal shape, which can convert normal PrP into the misfolded form—propagating disease without any nucleic acids. This protein-only nature is what makes carbohydrate- or nucleic-acid-based explanations incorrect, and it explains why prions are resistant to many standard inactivation methods that target nucleic acids.

Subscribe

Get the latest from Passetra

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy