A common herpes virus that can cause a chronic gut infection has been linked to changes in the immune system seen in Alzheimer’s disease, in a study published recently in the journal Alzheimer’s & Dementia.
Researchers in the US found that the virus, which is found in most people but usually does no harm, can enter an ‘active state’ and trigger a specific type of immune response which has been linked to Alzheimer’s.
Dr Sheona Scales, Director of Research at Alzheimer’s Research UK, commented: “Alzheimer’s disease is incredibly complex, and research is ongoing to understand its causes. This study adds to our growing understanding of the important role our immune system plays in the development of Alzheimer’s.
“This small study found a virus that causes a persistent gut infection may change the immune system, possibly driving the disease processes behind Alzheimer’s. While it’s too early to say for sure what this means, it could help explain some of the earliest changes that can lead to Alzheimer’s.
“Importantly, this research opens new possibilities for future treatments and ways to diagnose the disease. If scientists can better understand differences in the immune system in people with Alzheimer’s, they could explore new therapies that target these processes, including the possibility of using antiviral medicines,” she continued.
“This is a promising step forward, but it’s early days. More work is needed to confirm these findings and understand what they mean. At Alzheimer’s Research UK, we’re committed to supporting the science to understand how diseases like Alzheimer’s develop, which is crucial if we are to find a cure.”
