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.
96%
114 rated
Only available for registered users.
Sign up now to view full answer, or log in if you already have an account!
Answer
Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease (CJD) can be classified as both a genetic and infectious disease. The genetic aspect comes from mutations in the PRNP gene, which can lead to the disease, while the infectious aspect is derived from exposure to contaminated tissues.
Step 2
B. It is a genetic disease only, since it is encoded by a gene.
99%
104 rated
Only available for registered users.
Sign up now to view full answer, or log in if you already have an account!
Answer
While CJD has a genetic component related to mutations of the PRNP gene, this statement is incomplete. The disease can also spread through infectious means, making it not solely a genetic disease.
Step 3
C. It is not an infectious disease because the prion is non-cellular.
96%
101 rated
Only available for registered users.
Sign up now to view full answer, or log in if you already have an account!
Answer
This statement is misleading. While prions are indeed non-cellular, they can still cause infectious diseases. Thus, this characterization does not accurately classify CJD.
Step 4
D. It is an infectious disease and the normal prion protein is the pathogen.
98%
120 rated
Only available for registered users.
Sign up now to view full answer, or log in if you already have an account!
Answer
This statement is also partially true. CJD is indeed infectious, but it is the misfolded prion protein that acts as the pathogen, not the normal prion protein.
