Abstract
Recently, we reported that PrPSc, a surrogate marker for prion disease, is associated with the cellular fraction of blood from scrapie-infected sheep using a ligand-based immunoassay. In the study reported here, we found that a subset of peripheral blood mononuclear cells is most likely to sequester PrPSc during both the preclinical phase of disease and at clinical end point. These cells had a cell surface phenotype of MHC class II DQ+, surface immunoglobulin+, CD11b+, CD11c+, CD21+/−, which is consistent with a subpopulation of B cells. What role these cells play in the pathogenesis of scrapie is unclear, but they may contribute to the trafficking of prions to the spleen during early pathogenesis of the disease. Furthermore, tests for preclinical diagnostics could be further improved by targeting these cells.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
