Scientists have discovered a new virus called Chlorovirus ATCV-1 that can affect cognitive function in humans and turn them stupid.
According to Tech Times, 'Scientists at the University of Nebraska and John Hopkins Medical School reveal that the ATCV-1 virus infects the green algae found in freshwater ponds and lakes. Previously, scientists believed that the virus was not harmful to humans; however, latest study reveals that the virus can affect cognitive functioning in human brain, which can shorten attention span and also cause reduced spatial awareness.
'The researchers were conducting a separate study but found the DNA of ATCV-1 virus in human throat. The scientists conducted a test of 92 healthy individuals and found the virus in 40 people. Individuals who were infected with the virus performed 10 percent slower in visual processing tests.
'The study found no link between reduced brain function and factors such as variances in sex, income, education level, race and smoking cigarette. In a separate experiment, the scientists also injected the virus in the digestive tracts of lab mice. The researchers found that when these mice were put in a maze, they took 10 percent more time finding their way out when compared to normal mice.'
The impact similarity of the virus in humans and mice determines that ATCV-1 virus impars the brain function and makes people stupid, according to The Epoch Times.
'This is kind of the other end of the spectrum. These are agents that we carry around for a long time and that may have subtle effects on our cognition and behaviour,' said Professor Yolken.
The study on ATCV-1 virus turning people stupid was published in the journal PNAS.
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