Unfortunately there is no known treatment for prion diseases. A professional's answer's to questions on BSE and related prion diseases can be read. In cases of familial CJD where there is an option of genetic counseling, transmisibility may be theoretically avoided. However due to the late onset and incomplete penetrance of some inherited prion diseases, it is nearly impossible to predict future disease progression in individuals. Research is still very promising and should provide hope for effective therapies some day soon.
Prion protein is necessary for normal synaptic function.
Davanipour, Z. et al. Pan, K.M. et al. Molecular biology of prion diseases. Novel proteinaceous infectious particles cause scrapie. Scott, M.R.D. et al.