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Definition
Prions are abnormal, transmissible, pathogenic agents that induce abnormal folding of specific cellular proteins called prion proteins. When prion proteins are abnormally folded, they lead to prion diseases.
Prion diseases, also called transmissible spongiform encephalopathies, are neurodegenerative diseases that can affect humans and a variety of domestic & wild animal species. They are characterized by brain damage caused by abnormal prion proteins.
Requirements for working with prions or prion-infected tissues
Conduct a risk assessment Most prions affecting humans and/or animals must be handled at a minimum of Biosafety Level 2 (BSL-2) containment. Conduct a risk assessment to determine the appropriate containment level for your work. In your risk assessment, be sure to specifically consider the following: Submit your work for approval by the Institutional Biosafety Committee (IBC) PIs and Instructors who wish to work with prions or prion-infected tissues must submit a biosafety protocol to the IBC for review and approval before beginning work Complete required training Biosafety training is required for all individuals conducting research with prions or prion-infected tissues. Animal Biosafety training may also be required. Find complete biosafety training requirements on the Biosafety Training webpage. Have a procedure for waste decontamination & disposal The safest method for ensuring no risk of residual infectivity is to discard materials and destroy them by incineration. Other recommendations for prion inactivation are based on the use of sodium hypochlorite, sodium hydroxide, and/or autoclaving. In most cases, a combination of heat and chemical inactivation processes will be needed. Consult the BMBL or reach out to the Biosafety Office for specific recommended decontamination protocols.