Researchers from Arizona State University and Banner Alzheimer’s Institute have made a groundbreaking discovery linking a common gut virus to the development of Alzheimer’s disease. The study found that cytomegalovirus (HCMV) may contribute to the biological changes involved in the progression of neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer’s.
The researchers discovered that HCMV can linger in an active state in the gut and travel to the brain via the vagus nerve, changing the immune system and contributing to other changes associated with Alzheimer’s disease. The study also found that people exposed to HCMV may develop a chronic intestinal infection, which can lead to inflammation and neuronal damage.
The team developed a blood test to identify individuals with an active HCMV infection and who might benefit from antiviral medication. If confirmed, the findings could lead to new treatments or prevention strategies for this form of Alzheimer’s disease.
While most people are exposed to HCMV during their first few decades of life, it is not considered a sexually transmitted disease. The researchers note that simply coming into contact with HCMV should not be cause for concern, but rather investigating the presence of the virus in the brain may provide insight into its potential impact on Alzheimer’s disease.
The study highlights the importance of infections on brain health and neurodegeneration broadly. Further independent studies are needed to test the findings and resulting hypotheses.
Source: https://news.asu.edu/20241219-health-and-medicine-surprising-role-gut-infection-alzheimers-disease