What is one of the diseases caused by prions that affects sheep?

• A. Kuru
• B. Scrapie
• C. Chronic wasting disease
• D. CJD

Answer: (B)

Scrapie is a neurodegenerative disease caused by prions, which are misfolded proteins that induce normal proteins in the brain to also misfold, leading to brain damage. Scrapie specifically affects sheep and goats, causing significant behavioral changes, itching, and ultimately resulting in severe neurological decline and death.

This disease is notable for its long incubation period and is part of a broader class of diseases known as transmissible spongiform encephalopathies (TSEs), which also include conditions affecting other animals and humans. The name "scrapie" comes from the behavior exhibited by infected animals, which often scrape their bodies against objects due to itchiness associated with the disease.

Understanding the nature and impact of prion diseases like scrapie highlights the unique challenges they pose in terms of prevention and control, especially since these infectious agents are not destroyed by conventional means such as heat or antiseptics.