Medical Progress in Treating Prion Diseases: Mad Cow & vCJD

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Progress in finding treatments for prion diseases such as mad cow disease and variant Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease (vCJD) is ongoing, with notable research being conducted at University College London (UCL). There is a recognized connection between prion diseases and amyloid proteins, particularly regarding how misfolded amyloid proteins can induce misfolding in correctly folded proteins, leading to the formation of stable plaques. This phenomenon highlights the stability of misfolded proteins, which can perpetuate the disease process. The discussion emphasizes the need for advancements in treatment options to potentially restore the safety of consuming beef.
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Does anyone know what progress is being made in finding treatments for prion diseases like mad cow disease and vCJD? Or if any steps are being made in that direction? I've heard of some work at UCL regarding prions. I'd really like to be able to eat beef again.
 
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There's a reasonably well-established link between prion diseases and amyloid proteins.

I was at a talk last year that pointed out something interesting: amyloid proteins that are misfolded into a shape that allows the assembly of plaques are more stable than 'correctly' folded proteins. In addition, a misfolded amyloid protein is able to cause a correctly folded (identical) protein to misfold to the state of lower energy.

It sounds like prion/amyloid diseases are like "Ice 9", in a literal sense.
 

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