Protein, so far as we know, does not replicate itself all…
![“Protein, so far as we know, does not replicate itself all by itself, not on this planet anyway. Looked at this way, the [prion] seems the strangest thing in all biology, and, until someone in some laboratory figures out what it is, a candidate for Modern Wonder. (quote originally by Lewis Thomas)” quote by D. T. Max](https://sms4smile.com/q/img-quotes/1f9/d-t-max-52011_evolution_protein-so-far-as-we-know-does-not-repli_2180917.jpg)
““Protein, so far as we know, does not replicate itself all by itself, not on this planet anyway. Looked at this way, the [prion] seems the strangest thing in all biology, and, until someone in some laboratory figures out what it is, a candidate for Modern Wonder. (quote originally by Lewis Thomas)””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Prions are unique proteins that can cause disease without DNA, challenging our understanding of biology.
In simple terms: Prions are self‑replicating proteins, a biological mystery.
Key Takeaway
Study prions to broaden biological knowledge.
Themes
biology
science
mystery
Mood
curious
scientific
Type
educational
inquisitive
When to use this quote
- medical research
- biotech development
- public health education
Key Concepts
protein folding
disease mechanisms
evolutionary biology
Questions to Reflect On
- What implications do prions have for disease treatment?
- How does this reshape concepts of life?
A Different Perspective
Prion research is complex and controversial.