Some tiny organisms living in our intestines could play a role in keeping blood sugar steady. Scientists have noticed that certain gut residents called Blastocystis might influence how our bodies handle glucose. Not all types of Blastocystis behave the same way—some could be helpful while others mig
In the vast landscapes of Patagonia, a single grave tells a story of health and hardship from the 18th and 19th centuries. This grave belonged to an Indigenous person who lived during a time when their community interacted with European settlers. Scientists wanted to know more about the health of th
In the vast world of animals, some have taken a different path. Instead of becoming more complex, they've become simpler. This is especially true for parasites. Scientists have been studying a group of tiny creatures called Syndermata. This group includes rotifers, Seisonidea, and thorny-headed worm
Hedgehogs in Europe are often home to various internal parasites. These spiky creatures live close to humans and pets, which can lead to parasites jumping from hedgehogs to other animals or even people. This is a big deal because it can affect the health of many species, including humans. This is a
Microsporidia are tiny parasites that must live inside other cells to survive. They have a knack for manipulating the host's cellular processes to their advantage. One such process is autophagy, which is like the cell's recycling system. It usually helps the host cell get rid of unwanted stuff, in
Parasitic worms, or nematodes, cause a lot of trouble. They bring on various diseases in animals and even in humans. The drugs used to fight these pests, known as anthelmintics, are becoming less effective. This is due to the worms developing resistance to these treatments. So, finding new ways to t
Pigeons, often kept for fun or competition, can harbor a surprising number of intestinal parasites. These worms, including nematodes and cestodes, pose a threat not just to the birds but also to local wildlife and even humans. To tackle this issue, a close look was taken at the prevalence of these p
Parasites often have to share their host with other organisms. This is especially true for crop pathogens. They have to deal with plants that are also hosting helpful fungi. These fungi are known as mycorrhizal fungi. They form a mutually beneficial relationship with the plant. The root is where th
In the bustling urban jungle, a unique dance unfolds between hosts and parasites. This dance is shaped by various factors. These include the host's size, behavior, how crowded they are, and where they live. These factors can shake up the usual infection patterns seen in nature. The South American co
In South Korea, a new player has entered the scene of the invasive hornet, Vespa velutina. This hornet, first spotted in 2003, has been causing trouble for beekeepers, ecosystems, and even human health. Until 2020, no one had found any parasites or parasitoids on these hornets. Then, in Andong City,
