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Updated: Dec 23, 2025
12:57
Investigating the Spreading and Toxicity of Prion-like Proteins Using the Metazoan Model Organism C. elegans
Published on: January 8, 2015
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The cellular prion protein beyond prion diseases.
Giorgia Manni1, Victoria Lewis2, Matteo Senesi2
1Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Perugia, Italy.
Swiss Medical Weekly
|April 25, 2020
Summary
The cellular prion protein (PrPC) is involved in neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's. This review explores PrPC's broader roles beyond prion disorders and its therapeutic potential.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Molecular Biology
- Cell Biology
Background:
- The cellular prion protein (PrPC) is a cell surface glycoprotein.
- PrPC is primarily known for its role in prion diseases (transmissible spongiform encephalopathies).
- Emerging evidence suggests PrPC involvement in other neurodegenerative disorders and physiological processes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide an overview of PrPC functions beyond prion disorders.
- To discuss the implications of targeting PrPC in various diseases.
- To highlight the expanded role of PrPC in health and disease.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies on PrPC.
- Analysis of PrPC's involvement in neurodegeneration, immunity, and cancer.
- Discussion of potential therapeutic strategies targeting PrPC.
Main Results:
- PrPC acts as a receptor for misfolded proteins in Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases.
- PrPC influences myelin homeostasis, immune responses, and cancer progression.
- PrPC exhibits both neuroprotective and toxicity-mediating roles.
Conclusions:
- PrPC has a broader physiological and pathological role than previously understood.
- Targeting PrPC may offer therapeutic avenues for diverse diseases.
- Further research into PrPC functions is warranted.
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