NEET2026BiologyChapterActual
Which of the following accurately describes the biochemical nature of prions?
Options
- AThey consist of abnormally folded proteins and lack any nucleic acid.
- BThey are composed of free, low molecular weight RNA without a protein coat.
- CThey possess a double-stranded DNA genome enclosed within a complex protein capsid.
- DThey are infectious lipid molecules that primarily target the central nervous system.
Correct answer
A. They consist of abnormally folded proteins and lack any nucleic acid.
Step-by-step solution
Prions are infectious agents composed entirely of abnormally folded proteins. They are unique among infectious pathogens because they completely lack any nucleic acid (DNA or RNA). Viroids are composed of free, low molecular weight RNA without a protein coat. Viruses possess a nucleic acid genome (DNA or RNA) enclosed within a protein coat (capsid). Answer: They consist of abnormally folded proteins and lack any nucleic acid.