Prion leaves lasting mark on memory (EurekAlert!) ( Cell Press ) Prions are a special class of proteins best known as the source for mad cow and other neurodegenerative diseases. Despite this negative reputation, according to a new report in the Feb. 5 issue of the journal Cell, a Cell Press publication, a prion may also have important and very positive roles in brain function. The researchers suggest that a prion-like protein may participate ... [News Source]