Mice infected with the Toxoplasma gondii parasite showed no selective reduction in fear of feline predators. Findings reveal chronic T. gondii infection reduces anxiety and risk-aversion while increasing curiosity and exploratory behaviors.
Human hookworm infection, even at low levels, can cause rapid, acute and measurable cognitive impairments. Using rodent models, researchers found a link between the parasitic infection and alterations in both the microbiome and cognitive development.
Researchers have discovered six candidate biomarkers for Lyme disease. A newly developed test can help identify the disease which, until now, has been notoriously difficult to detect.
Understanding how parasites 'hack' the brains of their hosts may provide new insights into decision making and behavior.
Immune system response to chronic infection may be more directly to blame for health and behavioral changes associated with Toxoplasma gondii infections.
Researchers report bonobos express disgust when presented with contaminated food. The study reveals their curiosity transforms into caution when food is presented near feces or a bad smell.
Neuroparasitology could shed new light into the neurological basis for behavior and decision making, researchers say.
The immune response varies greatly, depending on the time of day a parasitic infection occurs, a new study reports. Researchers note infections that occur early at night were more successful as this is a time when the immune response is strongest. Parasitic infection thrives when it is able to elicit a strong immune response.
Study suggests new avenues for treating toxoplasmosis parasite infections.
A new study reports people with intermittent explosive disorder are twice as likely to have been exposed to toxoplasma gondii.
Researchers discover nitric oxide plays an unexpected role in maintaining the integrity of the blood-brain barrier, reducing parasite invasion in the brain and neuroinflammation.
Researchers have discovered how the parasite Toxoplasma gondii is able to cross the blood-brain barrier.
