Can bovine spongiform encephalopathy survive cooking temperatures?

Bovine spongiform encephalopathy (BSE), commonly known as mad cow disease, is a fatal neurodegenerative disorder that affects cattle. The causative agent of BSE is a prion, which is a type of infectious protein that is resistant to heat, radiation, and proteolytic enzymes. Prions can survive cooking temperatures, including boiling, frying, and grilling. This is why it is important to follow proper food safety guidelines when handling and consuming beef products to reduce the risk of exposure to BSE.