This Week in Parasitism

Vincent and Dickson review the life cycle and pathogenesis of the flagellated protozoan parasite Giardia lamblia. Host links: Vincent Racaniello and Dickson Despommier Links for this episode: Giardia lamblia trophozoite (jpg) Giardia lamblia cyst (jpg) Giardia lamblia life cycle (jpg) Heather's view of T. canis life cycle (pdf) Letters read on TWiP 16

Vincent and Dickson discuss the life cycle and pathogenesis of the protozoan parasite Trypanosoma. Host links: Vincent Racaniello and Dickson Despommier Links for this episode: Metacyclic trypanomastigote (jpg) Tsetse fly (jpg) T. brucei life cycle (jpg) T. brucei parasitemia (jpg) Kissing bug nymph (jpg) T. cruzi life cycle (jpg) Letters read on TWiP 15

Exploring the life cycle and pathogenesis of Leishmania parasite, discussing transmission, interaction with HIV, and RNA editing. Debating on P. falciparum origin and human migration. Diving into testing, treatment, and challenges of Leishmania infection, with comparisons to other parasites and ongoing combat efforts. Reflecting on microbial infections, inflammation, atherosclerosis, and evolution of parasitism in biological systems.

This podcast delves into Toxoplasmosis, discussing clinical consequences, parasite behavior, and global distribution. They explore the impact on pregnancy, audience engagement, and parasite interactions. Additionally, they touch on the correlation between parasite infections and human intelligence, including impacts on cognitive abilities and work performance.

Vincent and Dickson discuss Toxoplasma gondii, a successful parasite. They explore its transmission from cats to wildlife, behavioral changes in hosts, and survival tactics. The podcast also covers the potential risks of mosquitoes as bioterrorism weapons and engaging listener feedback. Additionally, they touch on plant parasites, immigration healthcare challenges, and highlights of the World Science Festival.

Vincent and Dickson continue their discussion of malaria, with emphasis on clinical aspects of the disease. Host links: Vincent Racaniello and Dickson Despommier Links for this episode: The quest for a malaria vaccine (Meet the Scientist 49) Science issue on malaria and tuberculosis Malaria pathogenesis (pdf) Malaria pathogenesis (jpg) Letters read on TWiP 11

Exploring the intricate life cycle of the Plasmodium parasite, from transmission in mosquitoes to the stages within the human host. Discussing the impact of malaria, genetic barriers, and Neanderthal genes on human evolution. Delving into heme sequestration, parasite survival strategies, and the challenges in controlling disease vectors.

Exploring the history of malaria, tapeworm brain infections, bizarre fish parasites, and the evolution of parasites. From the origins of 'mal aria' to the fight against malaria with quinine. Also, discussion on placental mammal parasites and the constant struggle against parasitic organisms.

Dickson reads his story about sparganosis caused by the diphyllobothroid tapeworm Spirometra mansonoides. Host links: Vincent Racaniello and Dickson Despommier Links for this episode: Spirometra life cycle (jpg) Dickson on vertical farming (CNN episode on YouTube, thanks Jesse!) Laboratory identification of parasites (CDC, thanks Michael!) Gold nanoparticles take out brain parasite (Cosmos Magazine, thanks Gary!) Letters read on TWiP 8

Exploring the dark history of tapeworm weight loss, fish tapeworm ecology, and intricate life cycles. Delving into tapeworm transmission, host specificity, and its impact on animals and humans. Uncovering the complexities of parasitic infections and potential evolutionary impacts of space colonization on microbial life.