Some considerations on the kinetics of pathogenic prions formation
Botrè, C.; Botrè, F.; Mazzei, F.; Montilla, S.; Podestà, E.
Annali Dell'istituto Superiore di Sanita 38(2): 195-198
2002
ISSN/ISBN: 0021-2571 PMID: 12387144 Document Number: 550907
Literature data with respect to kinetics of pathogenic prions are presented. The autocatalytic phenomenon of prion replication and the process of advancement of the infection are discussed. A model describing the interconversion from "normal" into "pathogenic" prions, and the subsequent growth of the infection, is proposed. This model takes into account the existence of two different steps: the first (slower phase), in which the interaction between the two different prions, with the transformation of normal prions into the pathogen ones, takes place. The second one (fast phase), in which the degree of advancement of the infection assumes the form of an irreversible, rapid trend.