Individual prions capable of cell damage

Individual prions capable of cell damage
New research published online in the journal Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences challenges the concept that neural degeneration is the result of prion aggregates, also called oligomers. The study identified a prion monomer that also causes significant cell damage. "By identifying a single molecule as the most toxic species of prion proteins, we've opened a new chapter in understanding how prion-induced neurodegeneration occurs," one of the researchers said. Medical News Today

Source: AABBsmartbrief