Final answer:
Prions are infectious proteinaceous particles that do not contain genetic material. They can cause disease by misfolding proteins.
Step-by-step explanation:
Prions are infectious proteinaceous particles that are not viruses and do not contain nucleic acids. They are typically transmitted by exposure to and ingestion of infected nervous system tissues, tissue transplants, blood transfusions, or contaminated fomites. Prion proteins are normally found in a healthy brain tissue in a form called PrPC. However, if this protein is misfolded into a denatured form (Prpsc), it can cause disease.
The options given in the question are:
- a) Infectious proteins
- b) Normal cellular proteins
- c) Cause misfolding of other proteins
- d) Contain genetic material
The correct answer is d) Contain genetic material. Prions do not contain DNA or RNA, which differentiates them from viruses and other infectious agents.