Jun 27, 2020
Andrew Thompson is a Professor of Parasitology at Murdoch
University who joins the show to discuss the ins and outs of his
research on
parasites.
In this episode, you will learn:
- How parasites can change and/or be introduced as a result of human involvement
- How the recreational pursuit of fox hunting and domestication of horses led to an artificial parasitic cycle (hydatid disease) in the UK
- What mechanisms certain parasites have developed to help them survive in their hosts
Thompson’s work on parasitic diseases began many years ago, when taking a class on invertebrate zoology. One project in particular struck his interest: the role of the dwarf tapeworm in mice. Since then, his research has gone far beyond tapeworms.
In recent years, the focus has been on
parasites of wildlife—particularly those that may have
conservation effects. In other words,
parasites that normally don’t cause much of a problem without
the impact of human involvement and man-made domestic cycles.
He gives a number of fascinating examples, and discusses the
studies which led to these findings. He discusses the progression
of hydatid disease in humans and domestic animals, surgical removal
as an intervention, what can be done to prevent it, and much
more.
http://www.murdoch.edu.au/Research-capabilities/Research-stories/Andrew-Thompson/
Available on Apple Podcasts: apple.co/2Os0myK