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herpesvirus

·May 11, 2020·4 min read

3D brain-like tissue model links Alzheimer’s disease with herpes

A 3D human tissue culture model demonstrated a possible causal relationship between Alzheimer's disease and herpes simplex virus 1 (HSV-1) infection. 40 Alzheimer's associated genes were over-expressed in the HSV-1 infected brain tissue, including genes associated with the production of amyloid-beta.

Featured Neurology Neuroscience

·October 9, 2018·5 min read

Blood Viruses Lead to Digestive Problems

WUSTL researchers report viruses such as West Nile and Zika can kill neurons in the gut, disrupting bowel movements and causing intestinal blockages.

Featured Genetics Neurology Neuroscience

·August 5, 2024·4 min read

Brain’s Defense Mechanism Against Herpesvirus Identified

Researchers have identified a novel defense mechanism in the brain that prevents herpesvirus from causing severe brain infections, despite the virus being present in over half the population. This discovery highlights the protective role of the TMEFF1 gene, which produces a protein that blocks the virus from entering nerve cells. The findings could lead to a better understanding of brain immunity and its role in preventing neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's. This groundbreaking research opens new avenues for studying brain defense mechanisms and their implications for brain health.

This shows a brain surrounded by the different herpesviruses

Featured Neurology Neuroscience

·July 29, 2022·6 min read

Chickenpox Virus May Trigger the Onset of Alzheimer’s Disease

Varicella zoster virus (VZV), the virus that causes chickenpox and shingles, may activate the herpes simplex virus and trigger the onset of Alzheimer's disease, a new mouse study found.

Featured Neurology Neuroscience

·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.

Featured Neurology Neuroscience

·November 1, 2024·4 min read

Cold Sore Virus’s Path in Brain Revealed

Research has shown that HSV-1, the virus responsible for cold sores, can spread into specific areas of the brain and may contribute to neurodegenerative diseases. Mapping HSV-1’s path reveals it targets regions crucial for functions like sleep, movement, and mood regulation.

Featured Neurology Open Neuroscience Articles

·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.

Featured Neurology Neuroscience Open Neuroscience Articles

·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.

Brain Cancer Featured Genetics Neurology Neuroscience Open Neuroscience Articles

·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.

This image shows purkinje cells in the cerebellum

Featured Genetics Neuroscience Open Neuroscience Articles Psychology

·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.

Featured Neurology Neuroscience

·July 16, 2025·4 min read

Herpesvirus Infections May Accelerate Dementia

A new study finds that prior herpesvirus infections are linked to a faster age-related increase in blood biomarkers associated with dementia, even in cognitively healthy women. Researchers measured five key biomarkers in 167 women and found that seropositivity for HHVs doubled the rate of biomarker accumulation compared to those without prior infection.