A prion is a type of protein that can trigger normal proteins in the brain to fold abnormally.
Prions don't contain genetic material like DNA or RNA.
The unique feature of prions is their ability to propagate and cause disease without the need for nucleic acids, making them quite distinct from other pathogens.
Prion diseases spread to humans by infected meat products.
This misfolding causes a chain reaction, leading to the accumulation of these abnormal proteins, which can damage brain tissue and lead to neurodegenerative diseases.
Prion diseases are rare.
Prions are known for causing several severe and often fatal diseases in humans and animals.
The discoverer of prions is Dr. Prusiner.