Parasites found in cat poop could help treat Alzheimer's and Parkinson's: Study

A new study has revealed that a common parasite found in cat poop could be a catalyst in the treatment of neurological disorders such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's.

The study, titled "Engineering Toxoplasma gondii secretion systems for intracellular delivery of multiple large therapeutic proteins to neurons", was published in Nature Microbiology on Monday (Jul 29).

Researchers have found that Toxoplasma gondii, a parasite commonly present in feline litter, successfully introduces proteins into the mouse brain.

The study, conducted by international researchers led by the University of Glasgow, in collaboration with Tel Aviv University, is still in its early phases. However, it provides a promising glimpse at how researchers can overcome one of the most difficult obstacles in neurological treatment.

Previously, researchers faced challenges in getting specific medication over the blood-brain barrier and into the correct location inside neurons, but the latest groundbreaking discovery provides an exciting new field of research. It is believed that the parasite, Toxoplasma gondii, can cross this barrier.

Researchers have noted that it would take several years topractical application of the findings. They added that they will keep experimenting in order to make sure the parasites are designed to die after delivering their payload, which is an important part as it would minimise any possible harm.

Professor Oded Rechavi from Tel Aviv University, said in the press release, that "Evolution already 'invented' organisms that can manipulate our brains, I think that instead of re-inventing the wheel, we could learn from them and use their abilities."

Professor Lilach Sheiner, who is one of the leadauthors of the study from the University of Glasgow's School of Infection and Immunity, said, "This is a blue-sky project where our collaborative team was thinking out of the box to try to tackle the long-standing medical challenge of finding a way to successfully deliver treatment to the brain for cognitive disorders."

"The concept is not without challenges, considering the dangers involved with Toxoplasma infection. For our work to become a treatment reality it will require many more years of careful research and development to enhance efficiency and improve safety," Sheiner added.

(With inputs from agencies)