Prions 'May Keep Nerves Healthy'

Photo: Removing prion proteins led to a breakdown of the myelin sheath surrounding the nerve.

From BBC:

Experiments on mice may help scientists understand the workings of the prion protein linked to brain disease vCJD.

Swiss researchers say there is evidence that prions play a vital role in the maintenance of the sheath surrounding our nerves.

They say it is possible that an absence of prions causes diseases of the peripheral nervous system.

One expert said there was growing evidence that the prion had a number of important roles in the body.

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