Researchers are exploring the potential of a parasite found in cat feces to aid Alzheimer's treatment. Known as Toxoplasma gondii, this parasite can penetrate the blood-brain barrier and potentially deliver therapeutic proteins to brain cells affected by Alzheimer's.
A recent study published in the Nature Microbiology Journal examined the effects of this parasite on laboratory mice. The findings suggest that it may be possible to modify the parasite to produce beneficial proteins that could help combat Alzheimer's.
Professor Uwe Groß from the University Medical Center Göttingen explains that cats become infected by consuming prey animals. The parasite reproduces exclusively in the intestines of felines, leading to millions of infectious oocysts present in their feces.
Contaminated food or water can spread the infection to other mammals, including humans, particularly through undercooked meat. Studies indicate that around 50% of the human population may carry this parasite, often without symptoms, though it can cause complications in immunocompromised individuals.
In Germany, approximately 1.8 million people suffer from Alzheimer's or other forms of dementia, with numbers rising due to an aging population. The research on using cat feces to combat Alzheimer's is promising, but scientists caution that further studies are needed to ensure the safety and effectiveness of this approach.