Chikungunya, and other mosquito-borne alphaviruses are known to trigger brain infections and arthritis in those who contract the infections. Researchers have identified two antibodies that protect animals from diseases caused by alphaviruses. The findings could pave the way to new treatments and a universal vaccine for alphaviruses.
Some viral infections could increase intercellular spreading of protein aggregates associated with neurodegenerative disorders, increasing the risk for developing Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, and other neurodegenerative diseases.
Around 25% of patients with multiple sclerosis have blood antibodies that bind to the Epstein-Barr virus and EBNA1, a protein made in the brain and spinal cord. Researchers say this is the first study to definitely show that the Epstein-Barr virus can cause multiple sclerosis in some patients.