Novel Prion Protein Gene ( <i>PRNP)</i> Variants in Wild Montana Mule Deer

Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD) is a fatal disease of cervids, which include deer, elk, and moose. Since its discovery in 1967, CWD has spread to 36 U.S. states and four Canadian provinces, with prevalences exceeding 20% in select free-ranging populations. With the popularity of hunting big game animals and the role of these species in the ecosystem, concerns have arisen regarding the transmission of disease to humans, as well as how to mitigate long term consequences of disease on animal populations. Given the significant risk of species spillover and the limitations of current management, innovative genetic research is essential. Our study identified novel <i>PRNP</i> genetic variants in Montana mule deer, cataloging their regional distribution and CWD status across several hunting seasons. By investigating the impact of these polymorphisms on protein stability and seeding activity, we provide critical insights into the genetic factors that influence disease phenotypes and transmissibility in wild cervid populations.