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Progress on low susceptibility mechanisms of transmissible spongiform encephalopathies

Li-Li Qing1, Hui Zhao2, Lin-Lin Liu1

  • 1Laboratory of Conservation and Utilization of Bio-resources, Yunnan University, Kunming 650091, China.

Dong Wu Xue Yan Jiu = Zoological Research
|October 10, 2014
PubMed

Insights

Transmissible spongiform encephalopathies (TSEs), or prion diseases, are fatal neurodegenerative conditions. This review examines why dogs, rabbits, horses, and buffaloes show low susceptibility to these prion diseases.

Area of Science:

  • Neuroscience
  • Veterinary Medicine
  • Biochemistry

Background:

  • Transmissible spongiform encephalopathies (TSEs), or prion diseases, are fatal neurodegenerative disorders affecting various mammals.
  • The "protein-only" hypothesis posits that prions, infectious particles lacking nucleic acid, cause disease through the conversion of cellular prion protein (PrP(C)) to a pathogenic form (PrP(Sc)).
  • Animal susceptibility to TSEs varies, with some species exhibiting low susceptibility.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review and summarize recent research on the low susceptibility of specific mammalian species to TSEs.
  • To investigate the underlying protein structure, biochemical, and genetic factors contributing to this reduced susceptibility.
  • Focus on dogs, rabbits, horses, and buffaloes as models for low TSE susceptibility.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of recent scientific studies on TSEs and prion disease.
  • Analysis of research focusing on the prion protein (PrP) structure and function in low-susceptibility species.
  • Examination of biochemical and genetic data related to prion protein conversion and disease resistance.

Main Results:

  • Identified key differences in prion protein (PrP) structure and biochemical properties among low-susceptibility species.
  • Highlighted specific genetic variations that may confer resistance to prion disease.
  • Provided a comparative overview of TSE susceptibility across dogs, rabbits, horses, and buffaloes.

Conclusions:

  • The low susceptibility of dogs, rabbits, horses, and buffaloes to TSEs is likely multifactorial, involving specific PrP structural and genetic characteristics.
  • Understanding these resistance mechanisms can inform future strategies for preventing and managing prion diseases.
  • Further research into the molecular basis of prion resistance is warranted.
Keywords:
BuffaloDogHorseLow susceptibilityPRNPRabbitSPRNTransmissible spongiform encephalopathy

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