Question

Are prions indestructible?

Answer 1

Prions:

1. They are proteinaceous infectious particles.
2. They cause several neurodegenerative diseases in mammals.
3. Example- Creutzfeldt Jakob disease.
4. Since they are not living organisms (unlike other disease-causing agents) & essentially proteins, it is difficult to destroy them using conventional sterilization methods like heat, sterilization chemicals, or radiation.
5. Incineration at very high temperatures for long periods can help in the destruction of prions.