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herpes

·May 21, 2025·4 min read

Cold Sore Virus Linked to Alzheimer’s, Antivirals May Lower Risk

A large study suggests that symptomatic infection with herpes simplex virus 1 (HSV-1)—best known for causing cold sores—may significantly raise the risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease. Researchers found that people with HSV-1 were 80% more likely to have Alzheimer’s, while those treated with antiviral medications had a 17% lower risk.

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·March 29, 2021·5 min read

Differences in Herpes Virus Symptoms May Relate to Variations in Strain Gene Expression

A new study reveals why some people with the herpes simplex 1 virus experience painful lesions, while others have no symptoms and yet still spread the infection. Researchers say the difference could be a result of how variations in the way certain strains of HSV-1 activate gene expression in neurons.

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·October 22, 2020·3 min read

How Herpes Infection May Impair Human Fetal Brain Development

Herpes virus simplex type 1 infection can spread to the fetal brain during pregnancy, resulting in an increased risk of neurodevelopmental disabilities and neurological deficits.

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·September 15, 2020·4 min read

Key Role of Immune Cells in Brain Infection Identified

Study identifies a specific type of immune cell that induces inflammation in herpes simplex virus (HSV) encephalitis.

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·December 18, 2019·4 min read

Is herpes virus infections linked to Alzheimer’s disease?

Study finds no link between the abundance of herpes viral DNA or RNA and an increased risk of developing Alzheimer's disease.

This shows a hand holding a drawing of a brain

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·November 26, 2019·4 min read

Multiple sclerosis linked to variant of common herpes virus

Researchers link the Human Herpes Virus 6A to the development of multiple sclerosis.

This image shows purkinje cells in the cerebellum

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·April 7, 2019·3 min read

Herpes virus link to bipolar disorder and depression

Findings provide evidence to support the role of human roseoloviruses, HHV-6A, and HHV-6B in bipolar disorder and major depressive disorder.

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·April 7, 2019·5 min read

Does herpes cause Alzheimer’s?

The herpes simplex virus 1, the virus responsible for cold sores, may account for 50% of Alzheimer's disease cases. HSV1 causes protein deposits which are characteristic of Alzheimer's disease. Findings also reveal antiviral treatments can help to reduce the risk of developing Alzheimer's in those with HSV1.

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·January 14, 2019·4 min read

Herpes Virus and Tumors Evolved to Learn How to Manipulate the Same Ancient RNA

A new study reports herpes virus utilizes ancient RNA to proliferate, mimicking the same process tumors have been found to manipulate. The findings could have implications for new treatment options and also may shed light on neurodegenerative diseases.

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·October 19, 2018·5 min read

Does Herpes Cause Alzheimer’s?

A new study looks at the possible causal link between the herpes virus and Alzheimer's disease. Researchers report antiviral drugs significantly reduce the risk of developing dementia in patients with severe herpes infections.

Image shows an electron micrograph of HHV-6 also includes a labeled insert of the mature virus particle.

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·July 10, 2017·5 min read

Hidden Herpes Virus May Play Role in Multiple Sclerosis and Other Brain Disorders

A new study in Scientific Reports concludes human herpesvirus 6 may impair the brain's ability to repair itself in demylination diseases, such as multiple sclerosis. HHV-6 is the most common human herpes virus, with an estimated 80% of people being exposed to infection during childhood. Researchers found the virus produces a protein that can impair the ability of brain cells to repair damaged myelin.