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Title: Science closer to unraveling the mystery of the Crazy Cat Lady. Post by: pxib on September 07, 2010, 02:55:11 PM Cat shit parasite linked to mental disorders: (http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2009/03/090311085151.htm)
Quote Dr Glenn McConkey, lead researcher on the project, says: “Toxoplasmosis changes some of the chemical messages in the brain, and these changes can have an enormous effect on behaviour. Studies have shown there is a direct statistical link between incidences of schizophrenia and toxoplasmosis infection and our study is the first step in discovering why there is this link.” The parasite infects the brain by forming a cyst within its cells and produces an enzyme called tyrosine hydroxylase, which is needed to make dopamine. Dopamine’s role in mood, sociability, attention, motivation and sleep patterns are well documented and schizophrenia has long been associated with dopamine, which is the target of all schizophrenia drugs on the market. Be warned, my catass brothers. Be ye warned. Title: Re: Science closer to unraveling the mystery of the Crazy Cat Lady. Post by: Murgos on September 07, 2010, 06:39:50 PM Now tell me something I didn't learn by watching Trainspotting 14 years ago.
Title: Re: Science closer to unraveling the mystery of the Crazy Cat Lady. Post by: K9 on September 08, 2010, 11:38:56 PM Toxoplasma is a really interesting parasite. When it infects rats and mice it alters their behaviour so that they actively increase their chances of being eaten by cats.
Title: Re: Science closer to unraveling the mystery of the Crazy Cat Lady. Post by: tgr on September 09, 2010, 12:21:08 AM It's an interesting parasite, but at least it's not like the cordyceps:
(http://www.maniacworld.com/fungi-vs-ants.jpg) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CCOQ0VU24xw |