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.
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.
Researchers at Aarhus University have identified a mutation in an immune system sensor that can result in chicken pox infection becoming fatal. According to the study, immune cells in those with extreme reaction to VZV neither detected the virus nor activated the immune system. The findings shed light on why some people are more susceptible to infections than others.
According to researchers, those who have had chicken pox in childhood may be at lower risk for developing brain cancer later in life.
