Parasite Found In Cat Poop May Actually Help Treat Ovarian Cancer, Dartmouth College Study
You may know that Toxoplasma gondii, the parasite commonly found in cat feces, is linked to a number of adverse health consequences, such as rage disorder and even schizophrenia. However, new research suggests that the parasite may actually have a use in the medical world, and could play a role in research to find the elusive cure for cancer.
Scientists from Dartmouth’s Geisel School of Medicine found that a specific protein secreted by T. gondii causes the immune system in mice to attack ovarian tumors, ultimately increasing their chances of survival. The scientists hope they can replicate these results and eventually use the protein in the immunotherapy treatments currently administered to human ovarian cancer patients.
Scientists from Dartmouth’s Geisel School of Medicine found that a specific protein secreted by T. gondii causes the immune system in mice to attack ovarian tumors, ultimately increasing their chances of survival. The scientists hope they can replicate these results and eventually use the protein in the immunotherapy treatments currently administered to human ovarian cancer patients.