Impact of prion proteins on the nerves revealed for the first time

(University of Zurich) When prion proteins mutate, they trigger mad cow and Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease. Although they are found in virtually every organism, the function of these proteins remained unclear. Researchers from the University of Zurich and the University Hospital Zurich now demonstrate that prion proteins, coupled with a particular receptor, are responsible for nerve health. The discovery could yield novel treatments for chronic nerve diseases.
Source: EurekAlert! - Infectious and Emerging Diseases - Category: Infectious Diseases Source Type: news