Herpes virus. Most people know herpes as an unpleasant viral infection that causes sores on the lips or genital area. Billions of individuals worldwide are carriers of the herpes virus, yet few consider its long-term consequences.
Recent studies suggest that herpes is far more dangerous than commonly believed. Researchers have discovered that the virus can bypass the body’s natural protective barriers and reach the brain, triggering inflammation, neuronal damage, and cognitive impairments.
Notably, scientific evidence now links herpes to Alzheimer’s disease and dementia.
Herpes virus, How Does the Virus Penetrate the Brain?
Traditionally, herpes was thought to spread through the skin and mucous membranes. However, scientists from the University of Illinois at Chicago have identified an alternative route of infection: through the nasal cavity.
Studies on mice revealed that when the virus enters through the nose, it evades the body’s natural defense mechanisms and directly infiltrates the central nervous system. This invasion leads to inflammatory processes and neuronal damage, which over time result in persistent neurological complications.
These changes are also reflected in behavior. Several months after infection, the test mice exhibited increased anxiety, cognitive decline, and impaired motor coordination. These findings suggest that the virus has long-term effects on the nervous system.
Inflammation, Why Does Herpes this Cause ?
One of the key factors in herpes-induced inflammation is an enzyme called heparanase (HPSE).
Under normal conditions, this enzyme plays a role in various biological processes. However, during herpes infection, its levels increase dramatically, intensifying the body’s inflammatory response. As a result, brain damage occurs, leading to memory impairment, anxiety, and reduced mobility.
A study published in the journal mBio demonstrated that in mice lacking the gene responsible for HPSE production, neuroinflammation was significantly weaker, and cognitive function remained largely intact.
This breakthrough could pave the way for new treatment methods aimed at reducing the inflammatory impact of the virus on the brain.
Alzheimer Disease, and Dementia, The Link Between Herpes.
While severe herpes-related brain infections are rare in humans, mounting evidence suggests that the virus may contribute to neurodegenerative diseases. This means that herpes could have similar effects on humans as those observed in mice.
As early as 2008, researchers discovered that herpes DNA is present in 90% of amyloid plaques found in the brains of Alzheimer’s patients.
These plaques are a hallmark of the disease and are associated with neurodegeneration.
Long-term studies have also shown that individuals who have had herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) are twice as likely to develop dementia. The virus can remain dormant in the body for years and reactivate under various conditions, such as stress or physical trauma.
Recent findings indicate that brain injuries can trigger the reactivation of the “sleeping” virus, leading to inflammatory processes that contribute to the formation of amyloid plaques. This supports the hypothesis that herpes may play a significant role in Alzheimer’s disease progression.
How Many People Are Infected with Herpes?
According to official statistics, about two-thirds of the global population are infected with the herpes virus. In other words, two out of every three people carry the virus, making it one of the most widespread infections worldwide.
However, most people remain unaware of its potential dangers to the brain.
Because the virus can persist in a latent state for long periods, its impact on the nervous system is often underestimated. At the same time, Alzheimer’s disease is the most common form of dementia, with an increasing number of people diagnosed each year.
What Can Be Done?
Unfortunately, there is currently no cure for herpes, but scientists continue to explore ways to neutralize the virus. If further research confirms that herpes plays a crucial role in Alzheimer’s disease, future preventive measures might focus on suppressing viral activity.
Thus, herpes is not merely a benign infection that causes temporary skin eruptions. It has the potential to penetrate the brain and cause lasting damage. Given that a vast majority of the population carries the virus, continued research is essential for developing effective strategies to combat its long-term consequences.
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