What is the difference between a virus and a prion?

Question

I remember one time during a class discussion, the topic of prions came up, and someone asked how they’re different from viruses. I didn’t know much back then, but after reading more, I realized the difference is pretty huge. Viruses carry genetic material and invade cells to replicate, while prions are just proteins that misfold and spread by turning other proteins bad. No DNA or RNA involved. This breakdown really helps make the differences clear.

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Alicia 2025-06-12T18:48:26+00:00 1 Answer 3 views
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  1. fleming
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    2025-07-13T14:56:52+00:00
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    Core difference

    Viruses are infectious particles that contain nucleic acid (DNA or RNA) wrapped in a protein coat. Prions are infectious proteins only, with no nucleic acid at all.

    Composition

    • Virus: genome + capsid ± lipid envelope
    • Prion: misfolded form of the host PrP protein

    Replication

    • Virus – enters a cell, uses host ribosomes to make viral proteins and copies its genome.
    • Prion – converts normal PrP into the abnormal shape; no genes, no transcription or translation.

    Resistance

    Viruses are inactivated by standard autoclave (121 °C, 15 min) and many disinfectants. Prions are extraordinarily tough; they need extended 134 °C steam or strong NaOH/bleach to destroy.

    Diseases

    Virus examples: influenza, HIV, COVID‑19.
    Prion diseases: Creutzfeldt‑Jakob disease, kuru, mad cow disease.

    Detection

    Viruses – PCR, antigen tests, culture.
    Prions – protein misfolding cyclic amplification (PMCA), Western blot after proteinase K digestion.

    Treatment

    Antivirals exist for many viruses. There is still no cure for prion diseases; prevention and strict sterilisation are the only options.

    Hope that clears up the difference.

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