Recent research has confirmed the presence of human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) in the intestines and brain tissue of Alzheimer's patients, suggesting a potential pathway for the virus to influence brain health.

The study, published in 'Alzheimer's & Dementia: The Journal of the Alzheimer's Association' on December 19, 2024, involved multiple research institutions, including UMass Chan Medical School and Rush University Medical Center.

Dr. Eric Reiman, the senior author of the study, expressed optimism about how these findings could impact Alzheimer's research and treatment.

Co-first author Dr. Ben Readhead highlighted that the study identifies a biologically unique subtype of Alzheimer's linked to HCMV, affecting an estimated 25% to 45% of patients.

The research underscores the importance of systemic factors in Alzheimer's, indicating that infections, such as HCMV, can impact brain health and contribute to neurodegeneration.

Support for the study came from various organizations, including the NOMIS Foundation and the National Institutes of Health, emphasizing the significance of diverse tissue samples from participants.

While HCMV is common and typically harmless, it can lead to chronic brain inflammation in certain cases, as shown in human brain cell models.

The researchers stress the need for independent studies to validate their findings and further explore the impact of infections on brain health.

Utilizing unique biorepositories in Arizona allowed for a comprehensive investigation of tissue samples from the same individuals, enhancing the study's reliability.

Microglia, the brain's immune cells, become activated in response to infections like HCMV, but sustained activation can lead to chronic inflammation and neuronal damage.

Despite advancements in Alzheimer's drug treatments, such as donanemab and lecanemab, these have not yet been approved for use on the NHS due to cost-effectiveness concerns.

Alzheimer's disease remains a significant health concern in the UK, affecting approximately 944,000 individuals and incurring rising annual costs of £34.7 billion.