What causes spongiform encephalopathy?
Scientists cannot agree on what actually causes the disease or how to treat it. The most common theory is the prion theory. A prion is a misfolded protein that is thought to be pathogenic and self replicating. The prion is not destroyed by heat as is a virus, mycoplasma or bacteria. It takes a very strong acid like formic acid or an alkali like sodium hydroxide to break it down. Prions have been observed in all cases of spongiform encephalopathies in different species. The prion theory contributes to the public panic but other researchers believe that the prions are the result of an underlying infection from a virus or mycoplasma. After evaluating available data from various sources, I no longer believe that the prion proteins are the infectious agents in any type of spongiform encephalopathy but that the real infectious agent is a virus or mycoplasma that co-mingles with the prions. More information on CJD and Mad Cow Disease can be found at the CDC website at www.cdc.gov. In the sear
