What is one of the main consequences of protein misfolding?

Protein misfolding is a critical issue that can have severe consequences for cellular function. One of the main consequences is indeed the increased risk of aggregation. When proteins misfold, they often expose hydrophobic regions that are normally buried within the protein's structure. These exposed regions can interact with similar misfolded proteins, leading to the formation of aggregates or clumps that can disrupt cellular processes.

Aggregated proteins can interfere with normal cellular functions, sequestering other cellular components and interfering with regular metabolic processes. This aggregation is a hallmark of several diseases, including neurodegenerative disorders like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases, where the accumulation of misfolded proteins leads to cell stress and eventual cell death. Understanding the implications of protein misfolding and aggregation is essential for developing therapeutic strategies for these conditions.