Authors: Cristina Afonso, Vitor B. Paixão, Rui M. Costa
DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0032489
Abstract Summary
Toxoplasma parasites alter more than just fear responses in infected mice. Researchers found that brain cysts modify exploratory behavior patterns and risk assessment, making rodents easier to catch overall—not just by cats. Cyst distribution in the brain wasn’t random, with specific locations linked to behavioral changes. This suggests the parasite evolved to enhance transmission between multiple predator species, not solely to its feline definitive hosts.
Why Brain? 🧠
Toxoplasma brain cysts alter mouse behavior beyond fear reduction, changing exploration patterns and risk-taking that increase capture probability, suggesting the parasite evolved to enhance transmission.
The image is AI-generated for illustrative purposes only. Courtesy of Midjourney.
