PrP c (PrP-sensitive) and PrP Sc (infectious PrP-resistant) are two forms of pri

Question

PrPc (PrP-sensitive) and PrPSc (infectious PrP-resistant) are two forms of prion proteins. Describe structural similarities and differences between the two forms of the protein. Describe what is known about the possible function of the normal form and explain how the infectious forms are thought to cause transmissible spongiform encephalopathies

Note: You must provide complete citations in APA format (you don’t need to double space) for the sources of information you used to support your answers for the questions in Part B. If you include them at the end of the quiz, then include in-text citations. The topic title should be included in citations from the course modules, Boundless Microbiology and other multi-topic sources. No credit for questions without citations.

Explanation / Answer

A prion is a known infectious agent which is a misfolded protein responsible for transmissible. Let us discuss the two types of prions.

Prpc - Here c stands for cellular. It is usually found in the membranes of the cells. It has an alpha-helical structure, one disulphide bond and a moleular mass of about 30kD. This is readily digestible by proteinase K. It is known to play important roles in cell adhesion and signaling.

PrPsc - Here "SC" refers to scrapie. This is responsible for causing the disease. It can form a large combinations of structures, which means that it is polydisperse. It's structure has not been well defined and is a subject of active research.

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