The mind-altering parasite called Toxoplasma gondii has a unique apparatus that is likely used to invade host cells and for its own replication. Shown here, the parasite is building daughter scaffolds...
Could microscopic parasites have the ability to take control of a human being? Scientists are starting to think so.
A third of the world's population may have a parasitic infection that scientists believe to have an impact on human behavior.
The protozoan parasite, called Toxoplasma gondii,
has long been considered to be an "asymptomatic" parasite in humans.
But lab tests and a new report suggest that it may cause or intensify
severe forms of schizophrenia, could have an impact on how human
hormones are secreted in the brain, and may cause personality changes.
Scientists have determined
that the parasite, which thrives in rats and reproduces in house cats,
tricks rats into getting into harm's way.
The CDC estimates that more than 60 million Americans carry the
single-celled parasite. Most people get it from infected, undercooked
meat or from cats. According to the agency, "of those who are infected,
very few have symptoms because a healthy person's immune system usually
keeps the parasite from causing illness." But scientists are starting to
rethink that theory.
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