Analysis of large data sets from post-mortem brain samples of people with and without Alzheimer’s disease has revealed new evidence that viral species, particularly herpesviruses, may have a role in Alzheimer’s disease biology. Researchers funded by the National Institute on Aging (NIA), part of the National Institutes of Health, made the discovery by harnessing data from brain banks and cohort studies participating in the Accelerating Medicines Partnership – Alzheimer’s Disease (AMP-AD) consortium. Reporting in the June 21 issue of the journal Neuron, the authors emphasize that their findings do not prove that the viruses cause the onset or progression of Alzheimer’s. Rather, the findings show viral DNA sequences and activation of biological networks—the interrelated systems of DNA, RNA, proteins and metabolites—may interact with molecular, genetic and clinical aspects of Alzheimer’s.

“The hypothesis that viruses play a part in brain disease is not new, but this is the first study to provide strong evidence based on unbiased approaches and large data sets that lends support to this line of inquiry,” said NIA Director Richard J. Hodes, M.D.

Alzheimer’s disease is an irreversible, progressive brain disorder that slowly destroys memory and thinking skills and, eventually, the ability to carry out simple tasks. More evidence is accumulating to indicate that this loss of cognitive functioning is a mix of many different disease processes in the brain, rather than just one, such as buildup of amyloid or tau proteins. Identifying links to viruses may help researchers learn more about the complicated biological interactions involved in Alzheimer’s, and potentially lead to new treatment strategies.

The research group, which included experts from Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York City, and Arizona State University, Phoenix, originally set out to find whether drugs used to treat other diseases can be repurposed for treating Alzheimer’s. They designed their study to map and compare biological networks underlying Alzheimer’s disease. What they found is that Alzheimer’s biology is likely impacted by a complex constellation of viral and host genetic factors, adding that they identified specific testable pathways and biological networks.

The researchers used multiple layers of genomic and proteomic data from several NIA-supported brain banks and cohort studies. They began their direct investigation of viral sequences using data from the Mount Sinai Brain Bank and were able to verify their initial observations using datasets from the Religious Orders Study, the Memory and Aging Project and the Mayo Clinic Brain Bank. They were then able to incorporate additional data from the Emory Alzheimer’s Disease Research Center to understand viral impacts on protein abundance. Through the application of sophisticated computational modeling the researchers made several key findings, including:

Human herpesvirus 6A and 7 were more abundant in Alzheimer’s disease samples than non-Alzheimer’s.

There are multiple points of overlap between virus-host interactions and genes associated with Alzheimer’s risk.

Multiple viruses impact the biology of Alzheimer’s disease across domains such as DNA, RNA and proteins.

Important roles for microbes and viruses in Alzheimer’s disease have been suggested and studied for decades, the authors noted. Since the 1980s, hundreds of reports have associated Alzheimer’s with bacteria and viruses. These studies combined suggest a viral contribution but have not explained how the connection works.

While the current findings are more specific, they do not provide evidence to change how risk and susceptibility are assessed, nor the diagnosis and treatment of Alzheimer’s, the authors said. Rather, the research gives scientists reason to revisit the old pathogen hypothesis and will be the basis for further work that will test whether herpes virus activity is one of the causes of Alzheimer’s.

by National Institute on Aging

Six out of every 10 falls happen at home, where we spend much of our time and tend to move around without thinking about our safety. There are many changes you can make to your home that will help you avoid falls and ensure your safety.

Fall hazards in the home, including a scatter rug, dog, and empty slippers

In Stairways, Hallways, and Pathways

Have handrails on both sides of the stairs, and make sure they are tightly fastened. Hold the handrails when you use the stairs, going up or down. If you must carry something while you’re on the stairs, hold it in one hand and use the handrail with the other. Don’t let what you’re carrying block your view of the steps.

Make sure there is good lighting with light switches at the top and bottom of stairs and on each end of a long hall. Remember to use the lights!

Keep areas where you walk tidy. Don’t leave books, papers, clothes, and shoes on the floor or stairs.

Check that all carpets are fixed firmly to the floor so they won’t slip. Put no-slip strips on tile and wooden floors. You can buy these strips at the hardware store. If they aren’t fitted properly, it might be worth looking into working with a professional, similar to those you’d find at Carpet Now (https://www.carpetnow.com/), to work towards resolving the issue.

Don’t use throw rugs or small area rugs. Buy a large, good quality rug from somewhere like Bazaar Velvet.

In Bathrooms and Powder Rooms

Mount grab bars near toilets and on both the inside and outside of your tub and shower.

Place non-skid mats, strips, or carpet on all surfaces that may get wet.

Remember to turn on night lights.

In Your Bedroom

Put night lights and light switches close to your bed.

Keep a flashlight by your bed in case the power is out and you need to get up.

Keep your telephone near your bed.

In Other Living Areas

Keep electric cords and telephone wires near walls and away from walking paths.

Secure all carpets and large area rugs firmly to the floor.

Arrange your furniture (especially low coffee tables) and other objects so they are not in your way when you walk.

Make sure your sofas and chairs are the right height for you to get in and out of them easily.

Don’t walk on newly washed floors—they are slippery.

Keep items you use often within easy reach.

Don’t stand on a chair or table to reach something that’s too high—use a “reach stick” instead or ask for help. Reach sticks are special grabbing tools that you can buy at many hardware or medical-supply stores. If you use a step stool, make sure it is steady and has a handrail on top. Have someone stand next to you.

Don’t let your cat or dog trip you. Know where your pet is whenever you’re standing or walking.

Keep emergency numbers in large print near each telephone.

If you have fallen, your doctor might suggest that an occupational therapist, physical therapist, or nurse visit your home. These healthcare providers can assess your home’s safety and advise you about making changes to prevent falls.

Your Own Medical Alarm

If you’re concerned about falling, think about getting an emergency response system. If you fall or need emergency help, you push a button on a special necklace or bracelet to alert 911. There is a fee for this service, and it is not usually covered by insurance.