The human PRNP gene codes for the prion protein - HSC - SSCE Biology - Question 14 - 2021 - Paper 1
Question 14
The human PRNP gene codes for the prion protein. Misfolding of this protein may be the result of ingesting tissue that contains misfolded prion protein or a mutation... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:The human PRNP gene codes for the prion protein - HSC - SSCE Biology - Question 14 - 2021 - Paper 1
Step 1
A. It is both a genetic disease and an infectious disease.
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Answer
Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease (CJD) is indeed classified as both a genetic and infectious disease. Certain genetic mutations in the PRNP gene can lead to familial forms of CJD, while the disease can also spread through exposure to infected tissues.
Step 2
B. It is a genetic disease only, since it is encoded by a gene.
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While CJD can have a genetic component due to mutations in the PRNP gene, this statement is inaccurate because the disease can also arise from infectious aspects, making it more than just a genetic disease.
Step 3
C. It is not an infectious disease because the prion is non-cellular.
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This statement is incorrect. CJD is characterized by the infectious nature of misfolded prion proteins, despite the fact that prions themselves are non-cellular.
Step 4
D. It is an infectious disease and the normal prion protein is the pathogen.
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This statement is the most accurate. CJD is primarily considered an infectious disease due to the ability of misfolded prions to induce misfolding in normal prion proteins, leading to disease pathogenesis.
