Prion (noun)

A type of protein that can cause certain fatal neurodegenerative diseases in animals, including humans, by converting normal cellular proteins into abnormal forms.

Origin:

1970s: from (pro)teinaceous + (inf)ectious particle.

Examples:

1. Prions are responsible for causing mad cow disease.
2. The research team is studying the behavior of prions in the brain.
3. Prion diseases can be transmitted through contaminated food.
4. Prion infection can be difficult to diagnose and treat.
5. The scientists are working on a new drug that can inhibit the formation of prions.