What is the theoretical cause of mad cow disease?

Mad cow disease, scientifically known as bovine spongiform encephalopathy (BSE), is caused by an abnormal form of a protein called a prion. Prions are found in all mammals, including humans, and are normally harmless. However, in the case of BSE, the prion undergoes a change in its shape, causing it to become infectious and capable of causing disease.

The theoretical cause of mad cow disease is the consumption of contaminated feed by cattle. Cows that are fed meat-and-bone meal made from the remains of other animals, such as sheep or cows, are at risk of contracting BSE. This is because the abnormal prions can survive the rendering process used to make meat-and-bone meal and remain infectious. When cattle consume contaminated feed, the abnormal prions enter their bodies and replicate, leading to the development of BSE.

The disease primarily affects the brain and spinal cord of cattle, causing a range of neurological symptoms, including difficulty in movement, coordination problems, and behavioural changes. As the disease progresses, the brain tissue becomes spongy and damaged, leading to a decline in cognitive function and eventually death.

It is worth noting that BSE is not a contagious disease in the traditional sense. It is not spread through the air or through direct contact with infected animals. Rather, it is transmitted through the ingestion of contaminated feed. Strict regulations governing the production and use of animal feed have been implemented to prevent the spread of BSE and protect the health of both animals and humans.