Researchers have found that head injuries may be linked to dementia due to reactivation of a dormant virus in the brain. A study by Durham University and Oxford’s Institute of Population Ageing has discovered that HSV-1, which causes cold sores, can lay low in human cells for life but is reactivated after blows. This leads to inflammation and changes similar to those seen in dementia patients.
The researchers used bioengineered human brain tissue models to test the hypothesis. They found that blocking an inflammatory molecule called Interleukin-1 prevented the risk of dementia-like changes. While this study was not conducted on real humans, it provides a crucial insight into the mechanism behind dementia development.
The findings suggest that head injuries can trigger reactivation of a dormant virus, leading to inflammation and brain damage. However, more research is needed to confirm the causal link between concussions and dementia. The Alzheimer’s Society emphasizes the importance of understanding how injury type and frequency influence risk factors for dementia.
This study highlights the need for further investigation into dementia prevention and treatment strategies. By targeting early interventions and understanding the mechanisms behind dementia development, researchers can work towards improving outcomes for those affected by this debilitating condition.
Source: https://www.huffingtonpost.co.uk/entry/head-injuries-dementia-virus_uk_67812891e4b075a3953056a0