Transmission of Prion Seeds in Yeast
Author Information
Author(s): Byrne Lee J., Cole Diana J., Cox Brian S., Ridout Martin S., Morgan Byron J. T., Tuite Mick F.
Primary Institution: University of Kent
Hypothesis
How do prion seeds propagate during yeast cell division?
Conclusion
The study found that the number of prion seeds in yeast cells is significantly higher than previously estimated, with important implications for understanding prion inheritance.
Supporting Evidence
- The study developed a new stochastic model to estimate the number of prion seeds in yeast cells.
- Experimental data showed that the presence of prions does not negatively impact cell reproduction.
- The proportion of prion seeds transmitted to daughter cells was found to be around 37%.
Takeaway
Yeast cells pass on prion seeds to their daughter cells when they divide, and the number of these seeds is much higher than we thought.
Methodology
The study used stochastic modeling and time-lapse microscopy to analyze prion propagation and cell division in yeast.
Potential Biases
Potential bias in estimating prion numbers due to cell death affecting the results.
Limitations
The study's estimates may be affected by the conditions under which the experiments were conducted, such as the concentration of guanidine hydrochloride used.
Participant Demographics
Yeast strains used were YJW512 and YJW679, with variations in prion status.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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