Brain Cysts Reveal Hidden Diversity in Toxoplasma’s Life Cycle

Using single-cell RNA sequencing on cysts from mice, researchers found that brain cysts of Toxoplasma gondii contain multiple bradyzoite subtypes rather than a single dormant form. These subtypes support survival, spread, or reactivation, explaining why current drugs can’t eradicate cysts and suggesting new therapy targets; the finding reshapes the parasite’s life cycle and underscores congenital toxoplasmosis risk worldwide.