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Multiple Choice
Mad cow disease is a prion disease found in cattle. Why are prion diseases in meat a big concern?
A
Prions cannot be destroyed by cooking meat.
B
Prions cannot be destroyed with irradiation of meat.
C
Prions are the most difficult infectious agent to deactivate or denature.
D
There are no cures for prion diseases.
E
All of the above.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand what prions are: Prions are misfolded proteins that can cause other proteins to also misfold, leading to disease. They are unique infectious agents because they do not contain nucleic acids like viruses or bacteria.
Explore why prions are resistant to common deactivation methods: Prions are extremely stable and resistant to heat, radiation, and chemical treatments, which makes them difficult to destroy using conventional methods such as cooking or irradiation.
Consider the implications of prion resistance: Since prions cannot be easily deactivated, they pose a significant risk when present in meat, as traditional food safety measures may not be effective in preventing transmission.
Examine the challenges in treating prion diseases: Currently, there are no effective treatments or cures for prion diseases, which makes prevention and control even more critical.
Conclude why prion diseases in meat are a concern: Given their resistance to deactivation, difficulty in treatment, and potential for transmission through consumption, prion diseases in meat are a significant public health concern.