A common cold sore virus can quietly stay in the body for life and may play a significant role in Alzheimer’s disease. Researchers have discovered that this virus, known as herpes simplex virus type 1, can be present in the brains of older people and increases the risk of Alzheimer’s in those with certain genetic factors.
Studies have shown that people infected with this virus are at a higher risk of developing Alzheimer’s compared to those without it. The virus can cause damage to brain cells and trigger inflammation, which may lead to the disease over time.
Researchers have also found evidence of the virus’s DNA inside abnormal protein clumps found in the brains of Alzheimer’s patients. Antiviral treatments have shown promise in reducing this damage in laboratory tests, suggesting that new drugs might one day help slow or prevent the disease.
Other viruses, such as those responsible for chickenpox and shingles, may also play a role in Alzheimer’s disease. A study on shingles vaccine recipients found that they were less likely to develop dementia than those who had not been vaccinated.
The research suggests that preventing common infections, including vaccines, could lower the risk of Alzheimer’s. Further studies are needed to confirm these findings and explore potential new treatments for the disease.
Source: https://www.sciencealert.com/alzheimers-could-be-linked-to-a-common-virus-you-already-have