106. Complement and Microglia Mediate Glutamatergic Neurodegeneration in Persistent Toxoplasma Infection of the Brain

Toxoplasma gondii, a common neurotropic parasite, is increasing being linked to neuropsychiatric disorders including schizophrenia, Alzheimer's disease, and Parkinson's disease. However, the pathogenic mechanisms underlying these correlations are not clear. Toxoplasma can reside in the brain for extensive periods in the form of tissue cysts. Such persistence requires a continuous immune response to prevent the parasite reactivation. This inflammation can cause synaptic and neuronal loss, leading to disruption of brain connectivity and behavioral deficits.