There is a potential link between Alzheimer's disease and the herpes simplex virus-1 (HSV-1), which is a common cause for cold sores, a recent study suggests

The University of Pittsburgh researchers uncovered a surprising link between Alzheimer’s disease and herpes simplex virus-1 (HSV-1) which suggests that viral infections may play a role in the disease.

The oral herpes virus appears to be linked with Alzheimer’s disease, suggesting that the common infection might play a role in the disease, a new study published in the journal Cell Reports says. Herpes simplex virus 1 -- the virus behind oral herpes -- appears to trigger the appearance of tau protein in the brain, researchers say.

A chronic gut infection caused by a common virus may be linked to the progression of Alzheimer ’s disease, a new study has found. Cytomegalovirus, or HCMV, is one of nine herpes viruses that most people are exposed to in the first few decades of life. Unlike most herpes viruses, however, it is not considered to be sexually transmitted.

The study stated that the herpes virus can trigger the formation of tau, a protein which can form tangles in Alzheimer's disease.

The research at Tufts and Oxford universities, using stem cells turned to organoids or “brains in a dish”, offers more evidence that viruses, particularly those in the herpes family that are present in the majority of adults,

A new study found a link between cytomegalovirus (CMV) and Alzheimer's disease. Here's what a neurologist wants you to know, plus how to protect yourself.

Research published Tuesday is the first to connect the dots between a common herpes virus, head injury, and Alzheimer's.