Conformational change in hamster scrapie prion protein (PrP27-30) associated with proteinase K resistance and prion infectivity

J Vet Med Sci. 2008 Feb;70(2):159-65. doi: 10.1292/jvms.70.159.

Abstract

The scrapie prion protein (PrP27-30) is a crucial component of the prion and is responsible for its transmissibility. Structural information on this protein is limited because it is insoluble and shows aggregated properties. In this study, PrP27-30 was effectively dispersed using sonication under the weak alkaline condition. Subsequently, the small PrP27-30 aggregates were subjected to different pH, heat, and denaturing conditions. The loss of proteinase K (PK) resistance of PrP27-30 and prion infectivity were monitored along with spectroscopic changes. Prion inactivation could not be achieved by the loss of PK resistance alone; a significant loss of the PrP27-30 amyloid structure, which was represented by a decrease in thioflavin T fluorescence, was required for the loss of transmissibility.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Alkalies
  • Animals
  • Cricetinae
  • Endopeptidase K / metabolism*
  • Female
  • Hot Temperature*
  • Mesocricetus
  • PrP 27-30 Protein / chemistry*
  • PrP 27-30 Protein / metabolism*
  • PrP 27-30 Protein / pathogenicity
  • Protein Conformation
  • Protein Denaturation

Substances

  • Alkalies
  • PrP 27-30 Protein
  • Endopeptidase K