Scientists Consider Prions to Be ʺPuzzlingʺ Proteins

question 29

Multiple Choice

Scientists consider prions to be ʺpuzzlingʺ proteins. Which of the following is TRUE about prions?

• A) Prions are proteins that are denatured more easily than most proteins.
• B) Prions are proteins that cause nearby proteins to change shape and become infectious.
• C) Prions are noninfectious proteins.
• D) Prions are infectious proteins that cannot be denatured by any amount of heat.

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Definitions:

Thymus

A gland located behind the sternum and between the lungs that is involved in the development of the body's immune system, particularly in maturing T lymphocytes.

Pre-T Cells

Immature T cells that are in the process of developing into functional T cells, located in the thymus gland.

Functional Immune Cells

Cells of the immune system that are active in defending the body against pathogens and foreign substances.

Macrophages

A type of white blood cell part of the immune system, responsible for detecting, engulfing, and destroying pathogens and dead cells.