Definition of misfold
of a protein
intransitive verb
: to fold into an incorrect three-dimensional shape that is typically nonfunctional and often resistant to breakdown Prions force proteins to misfold throughout the nervous system and bone marrow, eventually ravaging the brain and crippling the afflicted cow. — Cathy Booth Thomas
misfolded
play \ˌmis-ˈfōl-dəd\ adjective Scientists have identified a handful of diseases caused by misfolded proteins called prions … — Nathan SeppaRead the Latest from M-W
Recent Examples of misfold from the Web
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In which book was a puffy, misfolded map found on a workbench?
These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'misfold.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
First Known Use of misfold
1971
Medical Dictionary
misfold
playMedical Definition of misfold
misfolded
;misfolding
of a protein : to fold into an incorrect three-dimensional shape that is typically nonfunctional and often resistant to breakdown The abnormal prions induce normal prion proteins to misfold, and eventually the brain develops spongelike holes.—Bette Hileman, Chemical & Engineering News, 5 Jan. 2004
misfolded
adjective These findings may help researchers develop new treatments for Alzheimer's disease and other kinds of neurodegenerative disorders associated with an accumulation of misfolded proteins in cells.—Alison McCook, Scientific American, April 2001Seen and Heard
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