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. 1976 May;18(2):693–700. doi: 10.1128/jvi.18.2.693-700.1976

Properties of the scrapie agent-endomembrane complex from hamster brain.

J S Semancik, R F Marsh, J L Geelen, R P Hanson
PMCID: PMC515597  PMID: 131866

Abstract

Subcellular fractionation of scrapie-infected hamster brain indicated the association of the scrapie agent with a component of the endomembrane system. Characterization by equilibrium density gradient centrifugation, electron microscopy, and marker enzymes suggested a primary association with rough and smooth endoplasmic reticulum and a possible incorporation into the plasma membrane. DNA polymerase activity demonstrated a direct correlation with regions of scrapie activity from the gradient fractions. A scrapie-related product was detected after (3H)TMP incorporation and analysis on 2.2% polyacrylamide gels. Analysis of nucleic acid species extracted from subcellular fractions resulted in a greater quantity from healthy brain; however, no qualitative distinctions were detected.

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Selected References

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