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The role of the cellular prion protein in the cells of the immune system
Havlík, Martin ; Holada, Karel (advisor) ; Pačes, Jan (referee) ; Pačes, Jan (referee)
Prion protein (PrPC) is connected with the origin of transmissive spongiform encephalopathies (TSEs), fatal diseases that are on the molecular level based on the conversion of the cellular form of prion protein, PrPC, into the infectious form, PrPTSE. This isoform, exhibiting increased resistance against proteases and common decontamination methods, accumulates in tissues and causes degenerative damages of the central nervous system. Potential physiological function of PrPC in cells remains unclear, though many efforts have been focused on this research area in past years. Expression of PrPC was detected especially in neurons, high levels of PrPC are also present in different types of cells of immune system. Whereas some immunocompetent cells were widely examined, the relationship of PrPC with the function of others was not studied. PrPC probably plays a role in differentiation and activation of some immune cells, participates in regulation of cytokine production and other immune processes, affects grow of CD4+ T-cell population and also takes a part in formation of secondary lymphatic organs. This bachelor thesis is focused on summarization of existing knowledge describing the role of the cellular prion protein in cells of immune system, which is important also from the point of view of diagnosis...
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