<<–2/”>a href=”https://exam.pscnotes.com/5653-2/”>h2>BSE: Understanding the Disease and Its Impact
What is BSE?
Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy (BSE), commonly known as “mad cow disease,” is a fatal, neurodegenerative disease affecting cattle. It is caused by a prion, an abnormal protein that can accumulate in the brain and other Tissues, leading to severe neurological damage.
The Prion Protein: A Misfolded Menace
Prions are infectious agents that are distinct from bacteria, viruses, and Fungi. They are composed solely of protein, specifically a misfolded form of a normal protein found in the brain called the prion protein (PrP). The normal PrP protein is harmless, but when it misfolds into the abnormal form (PrPSc), it becomes infectious.
Table 1: Normal vs. Abnormal Prion Protein
| Feature | Normal PrP | Abnormal PrPSc |
|---|---|---|
| Structure | Alpha-helical | Beta-sheet rich |
| Solubility | Water-soluble | Insoluble |
| Stability | Degraded by ENZYMES | Resistant to degradation |
| Infectious | No | Yes |
How BSE is Transmitted
BSE is primarily transmitted through the consumption of contaminated feed containing animal byproducts, particularly meat and Bone Meal derived from infected animals. This practice was common in the 1980s and early 1990s, leading to the widespread BSE outbreak in the UK.
Table 2: Transmission Routes of BSE
| Transmission Route | Description |
|---|---|
| Horizontal Transmission | Ingestion of contaminated feed containing infected animal byproducts |
| Vertical Transmission | Transmission from infected cow to offspring through placenta or milk |
| Iatrogenic Transmission | Transmission through contaminated surgical instruments or medical procedures |
Symptoms of BSE
BSE typically affects cattle over two years old. Early symptoms are subtle and include changes in behavior, such as nervousness, aggression, and altered gait. As the disease progresses, symptoms become more severe, leading to:
- Ataxia: Loss of coordination and balance
- Tremors: Involuntary muscle shaking
- Paralysis: Loss of muscle function
- Blindness: Loss of vision
- Death: Usually within a few weeks of the onset of severe symptoms
Diagnosis of BSE
Diagnosis of BSE is typically based on clinical signs and confirmed through laboratory testing. Post-mortem examination of the brain reveals characteristic spongiform lesions, which are microscopic holes in the brain tissue. Other diagnostic tests include:
- Immunohistochemistry: Detects the presence of PrPSc in brain tissue
- Western blot: Detects the presence of PrPSc in brain tissue
- ELISA: Detects the presence of PrPSc in blood or other bodily fluids
Public Health Concerns
BSE is a serious public health concern because it can be transmitted to humans through the consumption of contaminated beef. This transmission leads to a variant form of Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease (vCJD), a fatal neurodegenerative disease in humans.
Prevention and Control of BSE
Effective measures have been implemented to prevent and control BSE, including:
- Feed Ban: Banning the use of animal byproducts in cattle feed
- Surveillance: Monitoring cattle populations for BSE
- Slaughter: Culling infected animals
- Regulations: Strict regulations on the handling and disposal of infected animals and their products
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can BSE be transmitted to humans through milk or other Dairy products?
A: No, BSE is not transmitted through milk or other dairy products. The prion protein is not found in milk or other dairy products.
Q: Is BSE a threat to human health today?
A: The risk of BSE transmission to humans is extremely low in countries with effective surveillance and control measures. However, it remains a potential threat, especially in countries with less stringent regulations.
Q: What are the symptoms of vCJD?
A: vCJD symptoms are similar to those of other prion diseases, including dementia, memory loss, Personality changes, and neurological dysfunction.
Q: Is there a cure for BSE or vCJD?
A: There is no cure for BSE or vCJD. However, research is ongoing to develop treatments and preventative measures.
Q: What should I do if I am concerned about BSE?
A: If you are concerned about BSE, consult with your healthcare provider or a qualified veterinarian. They can provide you with accurate information and guidance.