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Prion Dissemination through the Environment and Medical Practices: Facts and Risks for Human Health
Sandra Pritzkow1, Damian Gorski1, Frank Ramirez1
1Mitchell Center for Alzheimer's Disease and Related Brain Disorders, Department of Neurology, University of Texas Medical School at Houston, Houston, Texas, USA.
Abstract:
Prion diseases are a group of fatal, infectious neurodegenerative disorders affecting various species of mammals, including humans. The infectious agent in these diseases, termed prion, is composed exclusively of a misfolded protein that can spread and multiply in the absence of genetic materials. In this article, we provide an overview of the mechanisms of prion replication, interindividual transmission, and dissemination in communities. In particular, we review the potential role of the natural environment in prion transmission, including the mechanisms and pathways for prion entry and accumulation in the environment as well as its roles in prion mutation, adaptation, evolution, and transmission. We also discuss the transmission of prion diseases through medical practices, scientific research, and use of biological products. Detailed knowledge of these aspects is crucial to limit the spreading of existing prion diseases as well as to prevent the emergence of new diseases with possible catastrophic consequences for public health.
Insights
Prion diseases are fatal, infectious neurodegenerative disorders caused by misfolded proteins. This review examines prion replication, transmission routes including the environment and medical practices, and disease prevention strategies.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Infectious Diseases
- Biochemistry
Background:
- Prion diseases are fatal, infectious neurodegenerative disorders affecting mammals.
- The infectious agent, prion, is a misfolded protein lacking genetic material.
- These diseases are transmissible and can spread within and between species.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide an overview of prion replication and transmission mechanisms.
- To review the role of the natural environment in prion dissemination and evolution.
- To discuss transmission via medical practices and biological products.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of prion disease mechanisms.
- Analysis of environmental factors in prion transmission.
- Examination of iatrogenic and research-related prion spread.
Main Results:
- Prions replicate via protein misfolding, independent of genetic material.
- The environment plays a significant role in prion accumulation, adaptation, and transmission.
- Medical practices and biological products are potential iatrogenic transmission routes.
Conclusions:
- Understanding prion replication and transmission is vital for disease control.
- Environmental surveillance and mitigation are crucial for preventing prion spread.
- Preventing iatrogenic transmission is essential for public health safety.
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