Prions are toxic due to their ability to convert normally folded proteins into the misfolded prion form, leading to a chain reaction. This process results in the accumulation of prion proteins in the brain, causing cell death and the formation of sponge-like holes. The mechanism of toxicity lies in the prions’ ability to disrupt normal cellular processes, trigger oxidative stress, and induce apoptosis, leading to progressive and fatal neurodegeneration.
