The prion dilemma confounding science educators [v1; ref status: indexed, http://f1000r.es/ku]

Abstract

In this paper, the issue of the prion hypothesis, a simmering controversy within the scientific community, is addressed. We inquire into the appropriateness of the use of certain augmentations and rhetoric approaches used during scientific debates, as well as the aptness of unequivocal statements in textbooks that indicate “abnormal prions” as a primary cause of Transmissible Spongiform Encephalopathies.

Keywords

• Applied Microbiology
• Infectious Diseases of the Nervous System
• Neurobiology of Disease & Regeneration
• Neuronal & Glial Cell Biology
• Protein Chemistry & Proteomics
• Science & Medical Education