TOXOPLASMA GONDII Meaning and
Definition
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Toxoplasma gondii is a microscopic parasitic protozoan belonging to the phylum Apicomplexa. It is the causative agent of toxoplasmosis, a zoonotic disease that affects both animals and humans. The name "Toxoplasma" is derived from the Greek words "toxon" (meaning "bow") and "plasma" (meaning "image" or "form"), referring to the characteristic crescent shape of the parasite during its replicative stage inside cells.
Toxoplasma gondii has a complex life cycle with multiple hosts. Cats, particularly domestic cats, serve as the definitive host where the parasite undergoes sexual reproduction within their intestines. The oocysts, which are excreted in the cat's feces, are highly resistant and can infect a wide range of intermediate hosts including birds, rodents, and humans. Intermediate hosts become infected by ingesting the oocysts from contaminated soil, water, or food. Additionally, the parasite can also be transmitted through ingestion of tissue cysts found in raw or undercooked meat.
In humans, Toxoplasma gondii infections often result in mild flu-like symptoms; however, immunocompromised individuals and pregnant women are at a higher risk of severe complications. Congenital transmission of the parasite from an infected mother to her fetus can lead to severe neurological and ocular defects.
Toxoplasma gondii has been extensively studied due to its unique ability to manipulate the behavior of infected intermediate hosts. It has been associated with behavioral changes, altered responses to fear, and potential impacts on human psychology.
Common Misspellings for TOXOPLASMA GONDII
- roxoplasma gondii
- foxoplasma gondii
- goxoplasma gondii
- yoxoplasma gondii
- 6oxoplasma gondii
- 5oxoplasma gondii
- tixoplasma gondii
- tkxoplasma gondii
- tlxoplasma gondii
- tpxoplasma gondii
- t0xoplasma gondii
- t9xoplasma gondii
- tozoplasma gondii
- tocoplasma gondii
- todoplasma gondii
- tosoplasma gondii
- toxiplasma gondii
- toxkplasma gondii
- toxlplasma gondii
- toxpplasma gondii
Etymology of TOXOPLASMA GONDII
The word "Toxoplasma" originates from the Greek words "toxon" meaning "bow" and "plasma" meaning "something molded or formed". The term refers to the characteristic crescent shape of the parasite's infectious stage when observed under a microscope.
The term "gondii" is derived from the last name of the scientist who first described the parasite - Charles Nicolle. He named it "Toxoplasma gondii" in 1908 after Alexandre Gondard, a French physician who assisted in Nicolle's research.
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