Transmissible spongiform encephalopathy

Transmissible spongiform encephalopathies (TSEs) are fatal, incurable degenerative diseases of the brain transmitted by prions. Mental and physical abilities deteriorate and myriad tiny holes appear in the cortex causing it to appear like a sponge (hence 'spongiform') when brain tissue obtained at autopsy is examined under a microscope.

Possible cure or vaccine

Recent research from the University of Toronto and Caprion Pharmaceuticals have discovered one possible avenue which might lead to quicker diagnosis, a vaccine or possibly even treatment for prion diseases. The abnormally folded prions which cause the disease have been found to expose a side chain of amino acids which the properly folded prion does not expose. Antibodies specifically coded to this side chain amino acid sequence have been found to stimulate an immune response to the abnormal prions and leave the normal prions intact. http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2003/06/030602025719.htm

Related Topics:
University of Toronto - Caprion Pharmaceuticals - Antibodies

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Another idea involves using custom peptide sequences. Since some research suggests abnormal prions aggregate by forming beta barrel structures, work done in vitro has shown that peptides made up of beta barrel-incompatible amino acids can help break up accumulations of prion.

Related Topics:
Peptide - Amino acid

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