Which of the following statements concerning prion diseases is true?

• A. Prion diseases are primarily transmitted through airborne particles.
• B. Prion diseases can be effectively treated with antibiotics.
• C. Prion diseases are caused by bacteria that affect the nervous system.
• D. Prion diseases are caused by misfolded proteins that can induce other proteins to misfold.

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the nature of prion diseases: Prion diseases are a group of progressive conditions that affect the nervous system in humans and animals. They are caused by prions, which are misfolded proteins that can induce other normal proteins to also misfold, leading to disease.
2. Evaluate the transmission method: Prion diseases are not transmitted through airborne particles. Instead, they are typically transmitted through ingestion of infected tissue, contaminated medical equipment, or inherited genetic mutations.
3. Consider treatment options: Prion diseases cannot be effectively treated with antibiotics because antibiotics target bacteria, not proteins. Currently, there is no cure for prion diseases, and treatment focuses on alleviating symptoms.
4. Identify the causative agent: Prion diseases are not caused by bacteria. Bacteria are living organisms that can be targeted by antibiotics, whereas prions are misfolded proteins that do not respond to such treatments.
5. Conclude with the correct statement: The correct statement is that prion diseases are caused by misfolded proteins that can induce other proteins to misfold, leading to a cascade of protein misfolding and disease progression.