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Prions have the ability to transform normal, benign protein molecules into infectious, deadly ones by altering their structure.

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13y ago
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5mo ago

Prions are hazardous because they are infectious proteins that can cause degenerative brain diseases, such as Creutzfeldt-Jakob Disease in humans. They have the ability to convert normal proteins in the brain into abnormal forms, leading to a progressive deterioration of brain function and ultimately death. Prions are highly resistant to typical disinfection and sterilization methods, making them difficult to eliminate from the environment.

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Q: Why are prions hazardous?
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Related questions

Is DNA found in all prions?

No, DNA is not found in any prions. Prions are just protein - they don't contain a nucleic acid.


Can you kill prions by sterilization?

No, cooking does not destroy or disable prions. If you were able to cook a meat that contains prions to the point where the prions were disabled, the meat would be rendered inedible.You can use chemicals mixed with heat to destroy prions, but that's not a process you would want to subject your food to.


What is the cycle map on how prions replicate?

Prions replicate by converting normal cellular proteins into misfolded prion proteins. The misfolded proteins then template the conversion of more normal proteins into prions. This cycle results in the accumulation of prions in the brain, leading to neurodegeneration.


Can hydroxyls kill prions?

Hydroxyl radicals have been shown to degrade and inactivate prions by breaking down their protein structure. This process can help reduce the infectivity of prions in the environment.


Do prions contain DNA or RNA?

Prions do not contain DNA or RNA. They are misfolded proteins that can induce normal proteins to misfold as well, leading to the formation of aggregates that can damage cells and tissues.


How are viroids and prions the same?

Both Viroids and Prions have nucleic acid, but Viroids have no outer protein coat.


Do prions have RNA?

No, prions aren't organisms or even organism imitators like viruses. Prions are misfolded proteins that can aggregate and cause serious neurological problems. See link below for more info about prions from Answers.com.


Do class b sterilizer kill prions?

Prions are only destroyed by:• incineration• autoclaving in 1N NaOH


Is 70 percent ethanol is an effective disinfectant for prions?

No, 70 percent ethanol is not effective in disinfecting prions. Prions are highly resistant to common disinfection methods, including alcohol-based solutions. Specialized procedures involving harsh chemicals or autoclaving at high temperatures are required to effectively deactivate prions.


Are prions made of a protein?

yes


Are prions infectous proteins?

Yes


What includes infectious bacteria?

prions