Scientists from Cleveland Clinic’s Genome Center have made a groundbreaking discovery, revealing how the human herpes simplex virus-1 (HSV1) may contribute to the development of Alzheimer's disease in aging brains. Published in Alzheimer’s & Dementia, this study provides the first concrete evidence supporting the controversial connection between herpesviruses and neurodegenerative disorders. Researchers identified two FDA-approved drugs that can reverse the viral pathway linked to Alzheimer's in laboratory settings. This finding opens new avenues for preventing and treating diseases associated with aging.

The research team, led by Dr. Feixiong Cheng, director of the Genome Center, explored how latent HSV1 infections might trigger Alzheimer's through the activation of transposable elements—segments of DNA that can disrupt gene function as they move within the genome. These elements become more active with age, potentially leading to the accumulation of proteins associated with Alzheimer's, such as Tau. The study analyzed RNA sequencing data from hundreds of brain cells and identified specific transposable elements that were more active in Alzheimer's-affected brains containing HSV RNA.

To further validate their findings, researchers used artificial intelligence to examine 80 million patient health records. They discovered that individuals prescribed antiviral medications like valacyclovir and acyclovir had significantly fewer Alzheimer's diagnoses later in life. Laboratory models treated with these drugs showed a reversal of the HSV1-to-Alzheimer's pathway, providing mechanistic support for the observed real-world data.

The implications of this research extend beyond Alzheimer's. It suggests that targeting herpesvirus infections could offer new strategies for treating other neurological diseases. The study underscores the importance of investigating the role of viruses in age-related diseases, potentially leading to innovative treatments for conditions currently without cures.

This research highlights the potential for using antiviral therapies to mitigate the risk of Alzheimer's disease. By understanding the mechanisms through which HSV1 influences brain health, scientists are paving the way for novel therapeutic approaches. The findings also emphasize the need for continued exploration into the relationship between viral infections and neurodegeneration, opening doors to new preventive measures and treatments.