Link Between Gut Infections and Alzheimer’s Disease Uncovered
A new study led by researchers from Arizona State University (ASU) and Banner Alzheimer’s Institute has uncovered a compelling link between chronic gut infection by cytomegalovirus (HCMV)—a common virus—and the development of Alzheimer’s disease in a subset of individuals.
The study suggests that in some cases, HCMV may persist in an active state in the gut, travel to the brain via the vagus nerve, and contribute to hallmark changes associated with Alzheimer’s, including amyloid plaques and tau tangles.
The researchers found that this form of Alzheimer’s may affect 25% to 45% of patients, featuring distinct biological markers such as specific immune cells and antibodies linked to HCMV. Their findings highlight the role of microglia, the brain’s immune cells, which may drive chronic inflammation and neuronal damage when responding to the virus.
By analyzing tissue samples from the gut, vagus nerve, and brain, the study revealed how HCMV could migrate from the intestine to the brain. Using human brain cell models, the researchers demonstrated that exposure to HCMV can lead to the production of amyloid and phosphorylated tau proteins, ultimately causing neuronal degeneration.
The implications of this research are significant. The team is currently developing a blood test to identify individuals with active HCMV infections and hopes to explore antiviral treatments to prevent or slow down the progression of this specific form of Alzheimer’s disease.
This groundbreaking study, published in Alzheimer’s & Dementia: The Journal of the Alzheimer's Association, demonstrates the potential for infections to influence neurodegeneration and offers new hope for targeted therapies.
Full Press Release on Eurekalert.
