PrPc

Definition

PrPc is the normal, cellular isoform of the prion protein found in healthy animals and humans. It is primarily located on the cell membrane and plays roles in cellular processes such as signaling and protecting cells from oxidative stress.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. PrPc stands for 'prion protein cellular' and is encoded by the PRNP gene.
2. In its normal form, PrPc is harmless and soluble.
3. When PrPc misfolds into a pathogenic form (PrP^Sc), it causes prion diseases.
4. PrPc is rich in alpha-helices, whereas the pathogenic form (PrP^Sc) contains more beta-sheets.
5. Prions propagate by converting normal PrPc proteins into the misfolded PrP^Sc form.

Review Questions

• What is the primary function of PrPc in healthy cells?
• How does PrPc differ structurally from its pathogenic counterpart, PrP^Sc?
• What happens when PrPc misfolds into PrP^Sc?

Related terms

Prion: A type of infectious agent composed of misfolded protein that induces other prion proteins to misfold, causing diseases like Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease.

Viroid: A small circular RNA molecule that infects plants and disrupts their growth; lacks a protein coat.

PRNP gene: The gene responsible for encoding the prion protein, mutations in which can lead to hereditary prion diseases.