Articles tagged with Parasites
Comprehensive exploration of living organisms, biological systems, and life processes across all scales from molecules to ecosystems. Encompasses cutting-edge research in biology, genetics, molecular biology, ecology, biochemistry, microbiology, botany, zoology, evolutionary biology, genomics, and biotechnology. Investigates cellular mechanisms, organism development, genetic inheritance, biodiversity conservation, metabolic processes, protein synthesis, DNA sequencing, CRISPR gene editing, stem cell research, and the fundamental principles governing all forms of life on Earth.
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Comprehensive study of the universe beyond Earth, encompassing celestial objects, cosmic phenomena, and space exploration. Includes astronomy, astrophysics, planetary science, cosmology, space physics, astrobiology, and space technology. Investigates stars, galaxies, planets, moons, asteroids, comets, black holes, nebulae, exoplanets, dark matter, dark energy, cosmic microwave background, stellar evolution, planetary formation, space weather, solar system dynamics, the search for extraterrestrial life, and humanity's efforts to explore, understand, and unlock the mysteries of the cosmos through observation, theory, and space missions.
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Study of abstract structures, patterns, quantities, relationships, and logical reasoning through pure and applied mathematical disciplines. Encompasses algebra, calculus, geometry, topology, number theory, analysis, discrete mathematics, mathematical logic, set theory, probability, statistics, and computational mathematics. Investigates mathematical structures, theorems, proofs, algorithms, functions, equations, and the rigorous logical frameworks underlying quantitative reasoning. Provides the foundational language and tools for all scientific fields, enabling precise description of natural phenomena, modeling of complex systems, and the development of technologies across physics, engineering, computer science, economics, and all quantitative sciences.
Substantial reductions in malaria transmission have been achieved across most of Africa, but 57% of the population still live in areas of moderate-to-high transmission intensity. High population growth rates and emerging resistance to insecticides threaten progress.
Researchers have created a rapid, affordable diagnostic test for cryptosporidiosis using recombinase polymerase amplification (RPA) technique. The test can detect the presence of even one parasite in a sample, with high accuracy rates, and requires minimal equipment.
A research team led by USF Health's Michael White and Elena Suvorova aims to identify new factors required for malaria-related parasites' growth. The study may lead to the development of new therapies against malaria, a deadly mosquito-borne disease.
Researchers have discovered Leishmania parasites reproduce sexually in wild sand flies, leading to a better understanding of the disease's spread. This breakthrough sheds light on how the parasite becomes genetically adapted for successful transmission by sand flies, resulting in human disease.
Researchers have designed compounds called quinine dimers that work against sensitive and resistant strains of Plasmodium falciparum, the parasite causing severe malaria. These compounds bind to and block resistance-conferring proteins, resensitizing parasites to chloroquine and killing them.
Scientists at MIT have developed a strain of mice that mimics the human immune system, allowing them to study the interaction between the host and the malaria parasite. The research reveals that natural killer cells play a crucial role in controlling infection early on.
A new study by University of Warwick scientists recommends targeting 'superspreader' dogs responsible for the majority of leishmaniasis transmission to humans. By testing parasite loads in infected dogs, this approach could be more cost-effective and result in fewer unnecessary dog killings.
Researchers have made a significant breakthrough in understanding the mechanism of a common form of malaria. The study reveals that the parasite attaches to red blood cells using a two-step process involving two copies of a parasite protein coming together like tongs around two copies of a host protein.
A new study compares the relative rate of molecular evolution between humans and chimps with that of their lice. The researchers found that the lice are winning the molecular evolutionary race, with almost 15 times more changes in gene sequence.
Researchers have identified a key protein, GCN5b, necessary for the Toxoplasma parasite to replicate, offering new targets for drug therapies. Disabling this complex halted parasite replication, suggesting its potential as a treatment for toxoplasmosis and malaria.
Researchers have developed two compounds that disrupt an enzyme used by the parasite causing Chagas disease, showing greater cure rates than existing treatments. The new compounds have significant potential as a safe and effective treatment for this life-threatening illness.
A new malaria vaccine candidate, Quadvax, has shown promise in overcoming major limitations of earlier designs. By combining AMA1 proteins from multiple strains, scientists have created a more broadly protective vaccine that elicits antibodies against both variable and conserved epitopes on the AMA1 protein.
Researchers analyzed 29 strains of the parasite and found that some South American or atypical North American strains provoke strong inflammation in infected cells, leading to tissue damage. The study suggests that host immune responses may be causing most of the damage rather than the parasite itself.
A team of researchers has discovered a way to identify malaria-causing Plasmodium falciparum parasites that are resistant to artemisinin, the key drug for treating this disease. The study found that parasites with a mutant version of the K13-propeller gene were more likely to survive exposure to artemisinin.
Scientists from NTU have discovered a key process during the Malaria parasite's invasion of red blood cells and developed antibodies that can interfere with this process. This breakthrough has the potential to lead to the development of a low-cost vaccine that could save millions of lives.
Scientists at the University of Edinburgh made a groundbreaking discovery that could help combat the spread of sleeping sickness. By understanding how parasites communicate with each other, researchers may be able to develop new drugs to disrupt these messages and limit the disease's transmission.
A new study predicts that climate change will lead to a decline in the spread of snail fever in Africa, with up to 19% reduction in infectious areas. The parasite's host snails are expected to lose suitable habitats due to rising temperatures and changing precipitation patterns.
The UCSF Global Health Group will conduct research on community-based strategies to identify and clear the last remaining malaria parasites in areas close to elimination. The goal is to determine risk factors associated with malaria transmission and explore effective interventions for high-risk groups.
UC Riverside researchers have discovered low levels of DNA methylation in Plasmodium's genome, which may be critical to the survival of the parasite. This finding could lead to the development of a new drug to kill the deadly malaria parasite.
Research by Manuel Soler and team found that magpie foster parents are more likely to feed cuckoo fledglings in nests with only cuckoos, compared to those with magpie nestlings. This ability allows magpies to discriminate between host and parasite chicks.
Researchers found that alien harlequin ladybirds are less likely to be parasitized by common wasps and flies than native UK species. The study supports the Enemy Release Hypothesis, suggesting that native predators and parasites may struggle to attack invasive species.
The RH5-basigin interaction is crucial for the invasion of red blood cells by Plasmodium falciparum parasites. The team found that this interaction allows P. falciparum to infect humans but not chimpanzees or gorillas, mirroring its known infection profile.
Researchers have identified phosphatidylinositol 4-kinase (PI4K) as a potential malaria drug target, essential throughout the Plasmodium life cycle. Imidazopyrazines inhibit PI4K activity, blocking parasite development in both liver and bloodstream stages.
Scientists have identified a key metabolic enzyme used by Plasmodium species at each stage of infection, paving the way for more effective drugs and potentially eradicating malaria. The discovery could lead to radical cures and prevent infections, blocking transmission back to mosquitoes.
Researchers at McGill University Health Centre have identified a target molecule that can block Cryptosporidium parvum's ability to evade the immune system, providing a potential treatment for this deadly parasite. The discovery could lead to an effective treatment for cryptosporidiosis, which affects millions of people worldwide.
A team of scientists has identified the critical gene responsible for drug resistance in schistosome parasites. The finding could lead to improved therapies by redesigning the existing oxamniquine drug to target both major species, potentially saving millions of lives annually.
Researchers found that house sparrows' immune cells become more attuned to finding dangerous parasites at the edge of their range in Kenya. This adaptation may help the birds thrive in new areas with novel pathogens. The study aims to understand what gives invasive species an edge, informing efforts to manage and eradicate them.
A recent study published in PLOS ONE has provided the first explanation for type of antimalarial drug resistance. The research found a link between autophagy and resistance to malaria parasites, with implications for developing new antimalarial drug therapy.
Scientists discover genetic mechanisms allowing Plasmodium vivax parasite to invade red blood cells, potentially rendering Duffy-negative individuals susceptible to vivax malaria. The research suggests the parasite may be rapidly evolving, increasing the risk for millions of Africans who previously had natural protection.
Researchers have discovered genetic mutations in Plasmodium vivax that may be causing a rise in infections among Duffy negative individuals. The mutations include a duplication of the Duffy binding protein and two new proteins that resemble those used by related malaria parasites to enter red blood cells.
A Phase 2 clinical trial in Bolivia found that experimental drug candidate E1224 showed good safety and efficacy in clearing the Chagas parasite, but had little sustained efficacy as a single medication. Standard therapy benznidazole was effective but associated with side effects.
Scientists have developed a 3D filming technique that helps researchers understand how malaria parasites mate and spread the disease. The unique motion of malaria sperm, moving in an irregular corkscrew motion, has revealed new insights into prevention and control methods.
Researchers have developed a method to drastically reduce the dose of Amphotericin B used to treat leishmaniasis, a disease affecting over 12 million people worldwide. The new approach improves efficacy by 83%, reduces toxicity, and significantly shortens treatment duration.
A 15-year study on P. vivax population genetics in South Korea found drastic genetic change occurred between 2002-2003, suggesting parasites were introduced from North Korea. This explains why South Korea was unable to eliminate vivax malaria for 20 years.
Researchers found that certain mice develop IRG proteins, a resistance mechanism that prevents the parasites from killing them. This balance between parasite virulence and host resistance allows the infected mice to survive long enough for the parasites to complete their cycle.
Researchers at the University of Georgia have discovered a combination of two drugs that can effectively treat toxoplasmosis, a parasitic infection caused by Toxoplasma gondii. The therapy uses cholesterol-lowering statin atorvastatin and osteoporosis medication zoledronic acid to block parasite replication and spread.
Scientists find that malaria and toxoplasmosis parasites can survive without AMA1 protein, but still attach to host cells. This discovery challenges current therapeutic strategies and suggests alternative approaches for improving treatments.
Researchers found that patients who relapse after leishmaniasis treatment are infected with more infectious parasite strains, which cause a greater parasite load and make treatment challenging.
Researchers uncover a wide variety of malaria parasites in West African bats, including those closely related to rodent-infecting pathogens. The study reveals two bat-infecting parasites that made evolutionary jumps from rodents into bats and then likely back again.
Researchers discovered that the Baoulé breed of cattle has a natural tolerance to a deadly parasite, and developed a method to detect different types of trypanosomes. The study aims to preserve the genetic background of the Baoulé breed to develop more resilient cattle breeds.
Researchers found that cuckoo finches with multiple eggs in a nest confuse host parents, making it harder to distinguish their own eggs from imposter eggs. This strategy combines with egg mimicry to increase reproductive success. The study highlights the cunning tactics of brood parasites like the cuckoo finch.
A study in Malawian children found chronic inflammation in blood vessels after recurrent malaria episodes, predisposing future infections and cardiovascular disease. The findings explain high childhood mortality rates in malaria-endemic areas.
Chronic Toxoplasma infection causes mice to lose innate fear of cats, which persists even after parasite clearance and inflammation markers are undetectable. The infection alters the brain's mechanisms underlying fear responses, leading to a lasting behavioral change.
A study published in Vaccine suggests that genetically engineered malaria parasites can be used as a vaccine to protect against infection. The attenuated parasites, which are stunted through precise gene deletions, induce robust immune responses that provide long-lasting protection.
A new simple and rapid test can clearly identify artemisinin-resistant malaria parasites in people with the disease. The test was developed using ring-stage survival assays (RSAs) and shows promise for use in field-based settings to monitor artemisinin resistance.
Researchers have developed two rapid tests to monitor resistance spread and screen new drugs for malaria. The simple tests can predict whether a patient has slow-clearing, drug-resistant parasites in just 72 hours.
Researchers found that permanent parasites that are normally a social burden protect their hosts against greater evils. The guest ants rise to defend their hosts against mobile raiders, greatly decreasing the probability of a raid. This co-evolutionary process maintains lesser evils when it helps prevent greater harm.
Low-cost intervention holds potential to eradicate debilitating tropical disease. Insecticide-treated bed nets reduce transmission of lymphatic filariasis to undetectable levels in the absence of additional medication.
Research reveals honeyguides lay eggs resembling host bee-eaters' eggs to avoid destruction by rival females. This mimicry helps conserve reproductive success in competitive environments.
Tiny parasites, known as Mikrocytos mackini, have been found to infect Pacific oysters, causing unsightly green lesions and death. The discovery sheds light on the parasites' reduced metabolism and unique relationship with their host.
A study found that over three-quarters of imported bumblebee colonies tested carried parasites, posing a risk to native bees and honeybees. The researchers argue that producers must improve disease screening and regulatory authorities must strengthen measures to prevent the importation of parasite-carrying colonies.
The study reveals high genetic diversity of Plasmodium vivax in the Americas, similar to Asia and Oceania, suggesting multiple introductions. This diversity has important implications for control and eradication efforts.
Researchers at LSU Health Sciences Center have found new modes of transmission and associated behaviors for a parasitic lung infection. New cases are reported in the US, particularly among those who consume raw or undercooked freshwater Asian crabs or native crawfish.
Researchers develop equations to estimate parasite and host metabolic rates, providing a new way to understand the energetics of parasites. The model reveals that there is a limit to how many worms can be accommodated in a host, with energy being the key limiting factor.
Researchers have made significant progress in developing new gene therapies to treat Sickle Cell Disease, malaria, and Mucopolysaccharidosis Type IIIA. In the Journal of Clinical Investigation, scientists successfully delivered a replacement gene to the brain in mice and dogs with MPSIIIA using intra-cerebrospinal fluid gene therapy.
Researchers have developed a malaria vaccine using blood-stage parasites that are chemically attenuated, inducing immunity to multiple species. The study demonstrates protective immunity in mice for over 100 days, suggesting a promising approach to target human malaria species.
A recent study by UCSB researchers found that parasites add layers of complexity and density to food webs. Their complex life cycles and interactions with hosts also make them a crucial part of the food web ecosystem.
A new paper analyzed seven coastal estuary and marine food webs, including parasites, to understand their impact on network structure. The team found that most changes resulted from increased diversity and complexity, rather than unique parasite characteristics.
Researchers used complex network metrics to study primate species and their parasite fauna, finding that central primates are more capable of transmitting parasites to other species and humans. This discovery could inform early warning plans for emerging diseases in humans.
Researchers found that including parasites in food web models changes the distribution of feeding links per species, average shortest feeding chain between pairs of species, and proportion of omnivores or cannibals. Most changes occur due to increased diversity and complexity, rather than parasite-specific effects.