"Scientists at the Johns Hopkins Medical School and the University of Nebraska have discovered an algae virus that makes us more stupid by infecting our brains. The researchers were conducting a completely unrelated study into throat microbes when they realized that DNA in the throats of healthy people matched the DNA of a chlorovirus virus known as ATCV-1. ATCV-1 is a virus that infects the green algae found in freshwater lakes and ponds. It had previously been thought to be non-infectious to humans, but the scientists found that it actually affects cognitive functions in the brain by shortening attention span and causing a decrease in spatial awareness. For the first time ever, the researchers proved that microorganisms have the ability to trigger delicate physiological changes to the human body, without launching a full-blown attack on the human immune system."
full article: http://www.ibtimes.c...-stupid-1474010
I wonder how many of our cognitive problems are caused by external forces? Aside from genetics and conditioning, it seems likely that several mental afflictions could be caused by pathogens. If this were the case, then the application of nootropics is simply treating the symptoms and not removing the cause. What would it take to cleanse oneself of such pathogens, IF (big if) they are to be blamed for such conditions?