Summary
A natural human mutation (called V127) in the gene encoding prion protein may offer resistance to CJD. A study using mice with this genetic mutation appears to confirm resistance to prion diseases. This finding may in future help in the development of effective treatments for prion diseases, such as CJD, for which there are currently no known cure:
Reference
Could brain-eating cannibals provide the key to treating CJD? London: NHS Choices, June 11th 2015.
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Reference
Asante, EA. Smidak, M. [and] Grimshaw, A. [et al] (2015). A naturally occurring variant of the human prion protein completely prevents prion disease. Nature. June 10th 2015. [Epub ahead of print]. (Click here to view the PubMed abstract).
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Reference
Telling, G. (2015). Neurodegeneration: Evolved protection against human prions. Nature. June 10th 2015. [Epub ahead of print]. (Click here to view the PubMed record).
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Reference
Ghosh, P. (2015). Scientists find CJD resistance gene. London: BBC Health News, June 10th 2015.