Dormant and Reactivation

As the host develops immunity the replication rate will slow and the infected host cells will become encapsulated. These slowly replicating forms are called bradyzoites and represent a dormant or resting stage. Bradyzoites secrete chitin and other components to form a cyst wall. The reactivation of infection is associated with waning immunity. Initiation of the tachyzoite stage of the infection is followed by local tissue damage and inflammation. Interferon γ is the essential mediator of the immune response, necessary to maintain latency. Cytokine production by microglia, astrocytes and neurons, which control inflammatory responses.