2017/06/01 by Mark Zabel, Aimee Ortega · 1 citation
Biochemistry, Genetics and Molecular Biology · #Biology #Ecology #Prion Diseases and Protein Misfolding #Zoology
paper · pdf · doi:10.1128/mmbr.00001-17
openalex publication_date 2017/06/01 · openalex created_date 2025/10/10 · openalex updated_date 2026/07/15
Chronic wasting disease (CWD) affects cervids and is the only known prion disease readily transmitted among free-ranging wild animal populations in nature. The increasing spread and prevalence of CWD among cervid populations threaten the survival of deer and elk herds in North America, and potentially beyond. This review focuses on prion ecology, specifically that of CWD, and the current understanding of the role that the environment may play in disease propagation. We recount the discovery of CWD, discuss the role of the environment in indirect CWD transmission, and consider potentially relevant environmental reservoirs and vectors. We conclude by discussing how understanding the environmental persistence of CWD lends insight into transmission dynamics and potential management and mitigation strategies.