Researchers Find Evidence of a Possible Link between Herpes Simplex Disease and Neurogenerative Disorders
Herpesvirus is believed to be linked to neurodegenerative disorders because it remains in the neurons for a long time. According to Dr. Tibor Vayi-Nagy of UIC, who is a research collaborator and professor of pathology and director of neuropathology and a researcher on the study, the immune system needs inflammation to fight the virus constantly. Neurons are damaged because of the continuous immune response.
Summary: Researchers found that mutations in the OPTN gene led to increased herpesvirus growth in the mice brains, resulting in the death of neurons. This led to an accelerated neurodegeneration. OPTN deficiencies were also linked to impaired immune responses. Researchers believe that while these findings are specific for the HSV-1, they may also apply to other herpesviruses.
Source: University of Illinois at Chicago
Researchers at University of Illinois Chicago have found that the presence of the protein optineurin (OPTN) in cells can limit the spread of HSV-1 – the herpes virus type 1.
According to Dr. Deepak Shukla of the Marion H. Schenk Esq., in a study that was \”first-of-its kind\”, researchers found a possible direct link between neurodegenerative disease such as Alzheimer’s, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, glaucoma and the herpesvirus. Professor of Ophthalmology and Vice Chair for Research at UIC.
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Study Finds Evidence of Possible Link Between Herpes Simplex and Neurogenerative Diseases
