Composting Deactivation of Chronic Wasting Disease Prions

Abstract

Prions are the causative agent of transmissible spongiform encephalopathy (TSE) diseases in mammals. Prions are notoriously recalcitrant to chemical and physical degradation and are highly persistent in the environment. Disposal of prion-contaminated bio-waste is an increasingly challenging task for agencies responsible for such operations. The composting process has proven effective for the biodegradation of recalcitrant organic contaminants, and the abundance of microorganisms and high temperatures achieved during composting have prompted interest in this process for inactivating prions. Prior research on survival of prions in composting systems is limited and inconclusive