A groundbreaking study has found that traumatic brain injuries (TBI) could awaken dormant viruses within the body, potentially triggering neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s. Using advanced stem cell research, scientists have uncovered how repeated blows to the head might lead to reactivation of previously neutralized viruses like herpes simplex virus 1 (HSV-1)
Brain injuries and virus reactivation
The research, led by Dana Cairns of Tufts University, utilized three-dimensional “mini-brains” derived from stem cells to replicate brain tissue. The team aimed to explore whether head trauma could reactivate latent HSV-1.
“We thought, what would happen if we subjected the brain tissue model to a physical disruption, something akin to a concussion?” said Cairns.
The findings were startling: the virus reawakened post-injury, forming clumps and tangles of proteins within a week—changes that are hallmarks of neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s.
The link between TBI and neurodegeneration
This study adds to growing evidence that traumatic brain injuries are linked to an increased risk of neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer’s and chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE).
“Our results show that TBI causes reactivation of latent HSV-1 in our 3D brain model… and that if the injury is repeated, the damage is much greater than after a single blow,” Cairns noted.
Age matters: Younger brains at greater risk
Another significant finding revealed that age plays a role in the brain’s ability to cope with injuries. Mini-brains aged eight weeks showed better resilience than those only four weeks old. This suggests that developing brains may be more vulnerable to the long-term effects of trauma.
“Young, developing brains are at higher risks of getting neurodegenerative diseases post head traumas,” the study noted, raising concerns about children and adolescents involved in contact sports or prone to head injuries.
Potential for new treatments
The researchers emphasized the urgent need for further investigation to mitigate the risks of TBI-induced viral reactivation. Anti-inflammatory and antiviral treatments post-injury could hold promise in preventing HSV-1 reactivation and reducing the likelihood of developing Alzheimer’s or other neurodegenerative conditions.
“Our findings underline the importance of understanding how to counteract damage caused by head injuries,” Cairns said.
Implications for public health
This study highlights the critical need for awareness about the risks of head injuries, especially for young individuals and those in high-risk environments. Developing targeted therapies to reduce the long-term impact of TBI could pave the way for breakthroughs in preventing neurodegenerative diseases.