FAQs
1. Can lifestyle or environmental factors influence the risk of protein misfolding disorders?
Yes, environmental stresses such as high temperature, changes in pH, oxidative stress, and aging can all increase the likelihood of protein misfolding. Additionally, an imbalanced gut microbiome may contribute to the risk, especially in neurodegenerative conditions.
2. Are all protein aggregates harmful to cells?
Not necessarily. While some aggregates, especially small soluble oligomers, are highly toxic, larger inclusion bodies may actually sequester toxic species and serve a protective role by limiting their interaction with other cellular components.
3. What role do cell membranes play in the toxicity of misfolded proteins?
Misfolded proteins and their aggregates can interact with cell membranes, causing damage such as membrane permeabilization, lipid extraction, or destabilization, which can lead to cell death.
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