Researchers have made a groundbreaking discovery linking reactivated herpes viruses to the risk of concussions and dementia. A study using lab-made models of the brain suggests that inflammation can reactivate dormant herpes simplex virus 1 (HSV-1) in the brain, leading to changes tied to dementia. The study found that physical injury, such as concussions, can activate latent HSV-1 in the brain, triggering an inflammatory response and dementia-related changes.
The researchers created miniature laboratory models of the brain, measuring only 0.2 inches across, and infected them with HSV-1. They then subjected the models to different types of injuries, including severe injury and concussions, and observed that both led to inflammation and reactivation of the virus. In contrast, injured-but-uninfected models showed no signs of dementia-related changes.
The study’s findings suggest that reactivated herpes viruses may be a key link between brain injury and dementia risk. Scientists believe that blocking inflammation after injury could help prevent HSV-1 from reactivating and thus reduce the risk of dementia. Further research is needed to confirm these results, but the study provides a promising lead in understanding the complex relationship between concussions, herpes viruses, and dementia.
According to Dr. Dana Cairns, lead study author, “The people that are exposed to more chronic injuries over time often clinically have the worst manifestations of neurodegeneration.” The study’s findings have significant implications for our understanding of the long-term effects of brain injury and the potential role of herpes viruses in dementia development.
Source: https://www.livescience.com/health/alzheimers-dementia/reanimated-herpes-viruses-lurking-in-the-brain-may-link-concussions-and-dementia