Herpes virus suspected in Alzheimer's: New research insights
Scientists from the University of Pittsburgh have uncovered a surprising connection between Alzheimer's disease and the herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1). Their study suggests that viral infections might contribute to the development of this condition.
Researchers at the University of Pittsburgh found that the herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) could be linked to the development of Alzheimer's disease. Studies indicate that viral infections can play a significant role in this process. Special focus was placed on the tau protein, which accumulates in the brain.
Dr. Or Shemesh, the primary author of the research featured in Cell Reports, highlights that the conventional perception of tau protein as entirely harmful could be inaccurate. According to Dr. Shemesh, the findings suggest that tau protein may initially play a role in the brain's immune defence system.
These findings could lead to the development of new treatment methods targeting infections and the brain's immune response.
The discovery sheds light on the intricate relationship between infections, immune responses, and neurodegenerative processes, providing fresh perspectives and identifying potential targets for the development of novel therapies, the expert explains.
Viral proteins in patients' brains
The research team identified HSV-1-related proteins present in samples taken from the brains of individuals with Alzheimer's disease. Large amounts of viral proteins were associated with characteristic pathological changes occurring during the disease.
Further studies on miniature human brain models showed that HSV-1 infection could affect tau protein levels and regulate its function. This mechanism appears to protect neurons from death following infection.
Although the exact mechanisms of HSV-1's impact on tau protein and the development of Alzheimer's disease are not yet known, scientists plan to conduct further research. Their goal is to test therapeutic strategies targeting viral proteins or modulating the brain's immune response.
Researchers also want to investigate if similar mechanisms occur in other neurodegenerative diseases, such as Parkinson's disease and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS).
Many of us have this virus
The World Health Organization indicates that most of the population carries the herpes virus, suggesting that the increased risk of developing dementia affects many people.
The link between viral infections and neurodegenerative diseases has been interesting since the early 20th century. Alzheimer's disease is one of the major health challenges of the modern world, and the protein-protecting mechanisms related to it, such as tau protein, continue to be studied.
