Engineered Parasite Shows Promise for Treating Neurological Disorders

Scientists explore Toxoplasma gondii's potential to deliver therapeutic proteins across the blood-brain barrier.

Toxoplasma gondii, a common parasite, can cross the blood-brain barrier, making it a potential vehicle for delivering treatments.
Researchers have successfully engineered T. gondii to deliver the MeCP2 protein, which could help treat Rett syndrome and other neurological conditions.
Lab tests on human brain organoids and mice showed that the engineered parasite could deliver proteins with minimal side effects.
Further research is needed to improve the safety and efficiency of this method before it can be used in humans.
The study highlights the innovative use of natural organisms to overcome challenges in neurological healthcare.