Scientists Have Discovered These Deadly Parasites Are Secretly Swapping DNA

An international study found that Leishmania parasites frequently exchange DNA through hybridization.

Multilocus typing and whole-genome sequencing showed many isolates have mixed, hybrid ancestry instead of purely clonal lineages.

The results overturn the long-held view that Leishmania mostly reproduces by cloning.

This could help explain how the parasites evolve, spread, and possibly develop drug resistance.