Parasites

Parasite emergence facilitated by host wing-raising behavior

Study Reveals How Strawberries, Raspberries Were Ambushed By Fungal Parasites

Researchers found that powdery mildew disease caused by different fungi infects strawberries in North America and Europe differently, indicating the pathogens jumped hosts over millions of years. This discovery can aid understanding of plant diseases and their spread.

Professor helps uncover widespread genetic exchange in disease-causing parasites

A study published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences found that over 70% of Leishmania parasite isolates showed evidence of genetic mixing, indicating sexual reproduction and hybridization play a major role in their evolution. This challenges longstanding assumptions about the reproduction mechanisms of these parasi...

End of community-wide treatment linked to resurgence of parasitic worm infections in Malawi

Researchers found that stopping mass drug administration led to a nearly two-fold increase in intestinal roundworm infections among school-aged children. Community-wide treatment is needed to effectively manage and reduce these infections, highlighting the importance of understanding how disease control programmes interact.

SoCal honeybees can fend off deadly mites

A new study from UC Riverside shows that a locally adapted population of SoCal honeybees can naturally suppress deadly mites. The hybrid bees are less susceptible to Varroa mite infestations and cross-thresholds, making them more resistant than commercial breeds.

Parasitic tapeworm — a risk to domestic dogs and humans — found in Washington coyotes

A disease-causing tapeworm has been detected in Washington coyotes, which can spread to domestic dogs and humans if ingested through contaminated food or feces. The parasite's life cycle involves multiple hosts, including rodents and other canid species, making it a public health threat.

FAU study finds parasites defy biodiversity rules, thriving far from the equator

Researchers found that trematode parasites are more abundant in cooler temperate waters, defying the typical pattern of higher biodiversity near the equator. Temperature and host mobility play a major role in shaping parasite distributions, with certain species thriving in areas where hosts can tolerate infections better.

New research explains how the gut detects parasites and triggers sickness response

Researchers at Adelaide University have discovered a new gut–brain signalling pathway that governs how parasitic infections lead to nausea, appetite loss and other sickness symptoms. The study shows two specialised gut cell types work together to sense parasites and activate protective responses through the vagus nerve.

Fluorescent imaging reveals how a global parasite develops, opening new paths for drug treatment

Researchers at the University of South Florida used fluorescent imaging to map out Toxoplasma gondii's cell cycle, revealing its unique growth stages and potential weak points. The study aims to develop safer and more effective treatments for toxoplasmosis, a parasite that infects nearly one-third of the global population.

The ‘croak’ conundrum: Parasites complicate love signals in frogs

Parasites alter male calls, creating a complex pattern that can change how females evaluate potential partners. Females prefer lower-frequency calls, but also weigh the risk of parasite infection, making mate choice a nuanced decision.

Water is bed bugs’ kryptonite

A University of California - Riverside study has identified bed bugs' fear of water and wet surfaces, which affects their behavior and movement patterns. Researchers found that all bed bug ages and genders avoid wet surfaces, with younger insects being more sensitive to moisture.

Hot spring bathing doesn't just keep snow monkeys warm

Researchers found that hot spring bathing in Japanese macaques subtly reshapes their relationships with parasites and gut microbes. The study suggests that behavior can shape the animal holobiont and act as an important driver of animal health.

Common brain parasite can infect your immune cells. Here's why that's probably OK

New research reveals that the immune system has a potent weapon against the brain parasite Toxoplasma gondii: an enzyme called caspase-8. This discovery offers new insights into how our bodies control the parasite and may lead to better treatments for patients with compromised immune systems.

Scientists discover fungus that kills toxic algae threatening human health

A team of researchers from Yokohama National University has discovered a previously unknown species of marine fungus that can kill harmful, bloom-forming algae. The new species, Algophthora mediterranea, was found to be a destructive parasite in a species of algae known to cause toxic blooms with adverse health effects on humans.

Climate shapes arms race between ants and their social parasites

Two new studies show how climate shapes the behavior, communication, and genome evolution of ants and their social parasites, leading to adaptation in this long-standing conflict. Climate influences aggression, chemical profiles, and genetic strategies in both hosts and parasites, with varying responses across different climates.

Preempting a flesh-eating fly’s return to California

Researchers are tracking the New World screwworm's potential return to California, deploying traps baited with a lure that attracts the fly. Early detection is critical to preventing an outbreak, particularly among farm animals vulnerable to wounds. The project aims to raise awareness and prevent infestations if the fly were to reappear.

Parasitic matricide, ants chemically compel host workers to kill their own queen

Researchers discover a new parasitic strategy where an invading ant queen uses a chemical spray to manipulate host workers into killing their own mother. The study details two species of parasitic ants that use formic acid as a chemical camouflage to get past the colony's defenses.

Half-billion-year-old parasite still threatens shellfish

Researchers discovered a common parasite of modern oysters has been infecting bivalves for hundreds of millions of years. The parasite, belonging to the spionid group, has remained largely unchanged despite multiple mass extinction events.

River otters unfazed by feces and parasites while eating… and that’s good for ecosystems

A new study found that river otters in Chesapeake Bay eat diverse prey and parasites, including flukes, dinoflagellates, and invasive fish. The researchers suggest that otters may be helping to clean up polluted environments by consuming parasite-infected animals.

Discovery of ‘weird looking’ otter poo reveals how these animals shape nearby ecologies

Researchers found river otter scat containing parasites that infect prey, indicating otters may play a crucial role in shaping their ecosystems. The study also discovered diverse diets and invasive species among the otters' meals.

Researchers are inching closer to stopping parasitic worms from getting under your skin

A UCLA research team has discovered a key mechanism that allows parasitic worms to penetrate human skin and is now exploring a topical preparation to disrupt this pathway. The therapy aims to prevent infection by targeting the same molecule associated with pleasure in humans, but which drives parasite entry.

This chemical trick could turn losing malaria drug into a winner

Researchers have found a way to rearrange atoms in a new generation of malaria drugs to make them more soluble, maintaining their effectiveness against drug-resistant parasites. This breakthrough could lead to an effective successor to artemisinin-based combination therapy.

Tackling neglected tropical diseases among migrant populations

A study published in PLOS Neglected Tropical Diseases has shown that combining country-level information with individual-level variables can improve the identification of soil-transmitted helminth infections among migrant populations. Researchers found that country-level indicators are stronger predictors than individual-level variable...

Substances isolated from marine sponges show potential for treating malária

Researchers have discovered batzelladins, which rapidly eliminate parasites that cause malaria, including strains resistant to conventional antimalarial drugs. The efficacy of these substances was proven through tests on blood samples from patients and infected mice.

New clues to how immune cells fight – and are fooled by – malaria

Researchers from The University of Osaka have identified a protein expressed on malaria-infected red blood cells that can hide from the immune system while also activating immune cells to destroy infected cells. This dual function makes the protein an excellent target for vaccine development and treatment.

Global study reveals surprising flexibility in mosquito feeding patterns

A global study has uncovered greater diversity and flexibility in mosquito feeding patterns, challenging old ideas about how they choose their hosts. The research highlights the need for better tracking and prediction of mosquito-driven disease transmission in a changing climate.

Hey Doc, you got something for snails?

A team of researchers at Kyoto University has identified four species of snail parasites in Japanese sea cucumbers, including two previously unknown species. The study provides insights into the geographic distribution and invasion routes of these tiny parasites, which have a significant impact on the health of their host species.

Heatwaves greatly influence parasite burden; likely spread of disease

A new study found that heatwaves can increase disease burden by up to 13 times, driven by complex interactions between temperature attributes and baseline temperatures. This knowledge is crucial for predicting the impact of heatwaves on disease spread and highlights the need for more detailed models.

A threesome that hatches potato parasites

A Kobe University team has identified a new molecule, solanoeclepin C, that plants secrete to attract soil microbes. This newly found compound is converted into hatching factors that cause potato cyst nematodes to hatch prematurely, potentially offering a novel approach to parasite control.

Low-cost formulation reduces dose and increases efficacy of drug against worms

Researchers have developed a low-cost, nanotechnology-based praziquantel formulation that increases efficacy and reduces dosage for treating worms. The new formulation, requiring only half the usual dose, demonstrates greater efficacy in eliminating schistosomes than the active ingredient alone.

Atomic imaging and AI offer new insights into motion of parasite behind sleeping sickness

A research team at the California NanoSystems Institute has created the most detailed 3D map yet of the flagellum on Trypanosoma brucei, which causes sleeping sickness. The study identified 154 different proteins that make up the flagellum, including 40 unique to the parasite.

Amazon research tackles £50 million parasite devastating fish farmers around the world

A mysterious parasite is devastating fish farms globally, causing £50 million in losses annually. Researchers have discovered a new gene regulation process that could lead to the development of gene-based vaccines.

To avoid parasites, some fruit flies sacrifice sleep

Researchers found that fruit flies that successfully evade mite attacks at night lose valuable sleep, sacrificing energy and nutrients. The study's lead author noted that sleep deprivation can have detrimental effects on animal health and behavior.

How to protect bumblebee colonies safe from killer moths? Keep honeybee hives away from them

Bumblebees closer to honeybee hives are more likely to attract voracious wax moths, resulting in lower reproductive output and weaker immune response. Conservationists and beekeepers should avoid placing apiaries in areas with high pollinator biodiversity or declining bumblebee populations.

Reduced movement of starlings with parasite infections has a negative impact on their offspring

Research reveals that infected starlings have limited access to high-quality foraging habitats, leading to poorer physical condition and lower chances of survival in their young. Infected birds spent less time foraging and were more picky in their choice of habitats, resulting in 12% lighter offspring.

Understanding the immune response to a persistent pathogen

A team of researchers from the University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine has made a groundbreaking discovery about the immune system's response to the latent stage of Toxoplasma gondii. The study found that certain T cells can target neurons containing cysts, promoting parasite control. However, this process also poses a...

Fossils: Ancient parasitic ‘Venus flytrap’ wasp preserved in amber

Researchers discovered a fossilized wasp from the mid-Cretaceous period with a Venus flytrap-like abdomen, indicating it was a parasitoid insect. The species, Sirenobethylus charybdis, had a unique grasping apparatus that likely targeted highly mobile prey.

UTEP researchers test new, more reliable method to detect chagas disease

UTEP researchers have developed a new diagnostic method that significantly enhances the sensitivity of parasite detection in blood samples, making it a more reliable indicator of parasites in the blood. The method uses magnetic beads to extract parasitic DNA from blood samples, outperforming traditional silica columns.

A parasite introduced from Mainland China invades parts of the Tone River system

A new parasite introduced from Mainland China is infecting native fish in the Tone River system. Non-native fish such as bluegill and channel catfish help sustain the parasite's life cycle.

A new test will make it possible to detect the parasite responsible for trichomoniasis much more quickly and inexpensively

A new test, developed by Universitat Rovira i Virgili, can detect the Trichomonas vaginalis parasite causing trichomoniasis in just 15 minutes and for less than one euro. The test is as reliable as traditional methods and has been shown to be accurate even at very small concentrations of the parasite.

Landmark study of Chagas disease in Paraguay supports use of rapid tests to improve access to diagnosis

A landmark study led by ISGlobal found that combining rapid diagnostic tests with conventional serology improves access to diagnosis for Chagas disease. The prevalence of Chagas is six times higher in an indigenous community in Paraguay compared to the capital.

Essential genome of malaria parasite Plasmodium knowlesi mapped

A comprehensive map of Plasmodium knowlesi genes essential for blood infections has been generated, providing insights into drug resistance and informing the development of new therapeutics. The study identified molecular requirements for parasite growth and pinpointed specific genes causing resistance to current antimalarials.

Structural insights reveal drug target in trypanosome parasites

Researchers at EMBL Grenoble identified significant differences between the trypanosomal and human nuclear cap-binding complex, a key player in cellular RNA metabolism. The study reveals major differences that could serve as a potential drug target for treating neglected tropical diseases.

Drug-resistant hookworms put pets and people at risk

New research reveals widespread resistance to benzimidazole-based dewormers among canine hookworms in Australia. This increases the risk of gastrointestinal parasites, anaemia, diarrhea, and malnutrition in dogs, as well as cutaneous larva migrans disease in humans.

NIH researchers discover novel class of anti-malaria antibodies

Researchers at NIH have identified a novel class of anti-malaria antibodies that target previously untargeted regions of the parasite. These antibodies have shown promise in providing protection against malaria parasites in animal models and could lead to new prevention methods.

Fly vs. wasp: Stealing a defense move helps thwart a predator

Researchers found that fruit flies have stolen a toxin-producing gene from bacteria to defend against parasitic wasps, which can turn fly larvae into surrogate wombs for baby wasps. This discovery highlights the importance of horizontal gene transfer in animal evolution and suggests it may be more common than previously thought.

Research points the way to lifesaving antiparasitic drugs while unlocking a scientific mystery

Researchers have identified a new pathway for ergosterol biosynthesis in Leishmania parasites, paving the way for more effective antiparasitic drugs. The discovery reveals that azole antifungals targeting a specific enzyme can be highly effective against leishmaniasis.

Genes linked to deadly parasites’ spread beyond Africa identified

Researchers have discovered that climate change and tsetse fly control measures can drive molecular changes in African trypanosomes, enabling them to infect animals without flies. New strains with reduced life cycles have been detected in Asia, South America, and southern Europe.

Global research led by UT Health San Antonio uncovers critical weakness in malaria parasite

Researchers found that antibodies targeting a specific site on the malaria parasite's virulence protein bind to the human host's endothelial protein C receptor, neutralizing the parasite. The discovery provides new insights into prevention and treatment of severe malaria.

How helicopter parenting protects baby reef fish

Researchers discovered a species of damselfish actively eating gnathiid isopods, which are common reef parasites, to protect their young. This unique 'great fish parenting' behavior increased the survival rate of juvenile fish by three times.

Study shows how genetic defects in Toxoplasma are rescued by co-infection

Researchers found that Toxoplasma gondii parasites lacking the protein MYR1 can survive and proliferate when co-infected with normal parasites, thanks to supportive secreted proteins. This study highlights a limitation of pooled CRISPR screens in studying parasite biology in live hosts.

Toxoplasma gondii parasite uses unconventional method to make proteins for evasion of drug treatment

A study by Indiana University School of Medicine researchers reveals that Toxoplasma gondii parasites use cap-independent translation to make proteins for dormant stages, evading drug treatment. This unconventional method has been found in both the parasite and human cells, making it a potential target for new treatments.

A tapeworm-inspired, tissue-anchoring mechanism for medical devices

Researchers at Harvard University have developed a tissue-anchoring mechanism for medical devices, inspired by the circular hook-like attachment organ found in intestinal tapeworms. The device can be deployed in under 1 millisecond and anchors into soft tissue with minimal damage.

Insects wearing two hats solve botanical mystery

Researchers at Kobe University have discovered that ants and camel crickets are crucial in the pollination and seed dispersal of rare parasitic plants. These tiny arthropods play a unique dual role, visiting flowers for pollen and nectar while later feeding on leaves carrying seeds.

Parasite-inspired medical devices

Researchers designed a millimeter-scale mechanism inspired by tapeworms to anchor small medical devices to soft tissues. The device, made of stainless steel and polyimide film, can be used in various medical applications and has potential for affixing sensors to marine organisms.

New tool reveals how malaria sticks to red blood vessels

A new gene-editing tool enables precise study of variable proteins that allow malaria parasites to stick to red blood cells and evade the immune system. The study introduces a platform to explore how malaria causes disease and identifies new proteins involved in the cytoadhesion process.

Study uncovers first evidence of resistance to standard malaria treatment in African children with severe malaria

A study published in JAMA found evidence of partial resistance to artemisinin derivatives in young children with severe malaria, raising questions about the need for new treatments. The study also showed that 10% of children returned within 28 days with an infection from the same strain they had during their original admission.

Infections with parasites affect the local flight behaviour of swallows

Swallow populations infected with parasites exhibit altered movement patterns, including reduced home ranges and foraging activity. This can lead to decreased foraging success and increased mortality rates.

Discovery of critical iron-transport protein in malaria parasites could lead to faster-acting medications

Scientists have discovered a crucial protein called DMT1 that enables single-celled malaria parasites to use iron, essential for survival and reproduction. Blocking this protein may lead to effective antimalarial drugs.

Scientific discovery scratching beneath the surface of itchiness

Researchers from Penn Vet discovered that a species of parasitic worms can evade the mammalian urge to scratch an itch by blocking the sensation, allowing it to enter the body undetected. The study found that activating specific neurons can block the entry of these parasites, preventing their dissemination through the body.