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Herpes viruses in the brain linked to Alzheimer’s disease

By Sam Wong

21 June 2018

New Scientist. Science news and long reads from expert journalists, covering developments in science, technology, health and the environment on the website and the magazine.

The herpes virus HHV-6 has been found in the brain of people with Alzheimer’s disease.

National Cancer Institute/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY

The most in-depth analysis of human brain tissue ever done in Alzheimer’s disease has found evidence for the controversial theory that viruses play a role in the condition. If true, it could mean that some instances of Alzheimer’s might be treated with anti-viral drugs.

Alzheimer’s is the most common cause of dementia, affecting some 47 million people worldwide. Treatments can temporarily slow its progression, but there is no cure and we still lack a full understanding of what…

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