A sexually transmitted infection that impacts nearly two-thirds of the global population may potentially ‘lead to dementia’, according to a new study.
Researchers from the University of Illinois Chicago have issued a concerning health warning following their investigation into the herpes simplex virus type one (HSV-1). They discovered that the virus can be contracted both inside and around the nose.
More commonly referred to as herpes, HSV-1 causes painful blisters or ulcers. It primarily spreads through skin-to-skin contact, and although treatable, it is not curable.
HSV-1, more commonly known as herpes, infects almost two-thirds of the world population (Getty stock)
The World Health Organization (WHO) clarifies that the virus exists in two forms: type one, transmitted through oral contact, primarily causing infections in and around the mouth.
“It can also lead to genital herpes. The majority of adults carry HSV-1,” the organization states.
On the other hand, type two is transmitted sexually and is responsible for genital herpes.
Nevertheless, experts highlight instances where HSV-1 has been spread via oral sexual activity.
“If a person shedding the virus through tears exposes someone else, it could enter the nasal cavity, potentially reaching the brain more directly,” explained Dr. Deepak Shukla, the study’s lead author.
HSV-1 is a lifelong infection that can be treated but not cured (Getty stock)
“I believe it’s both underdiagnosed and under-researched, but the neurological impacts, in our view, are far more serious than what you’d typically observe with fever blisters or eye infections.”
By experimenting on lab mice, researchers found that a protein known as heparanase significantly contributes to the worsening of HSV-1-related conditions—such as brain inflammation and behavioral disruptions.
When the mice were infected with HSV-1 through their nasal passages, heparanase triggered brain inflammation, which subsequently caused issues with memory, anxiety, and motor function.
In contrast, mice lacking heparanase experienced fewer of these complications.
The study, published in mBio late last month, concludes: “Our results highlight HPSE as a promising therapeutic target for reducing virus-driven neuroinflammation and associated neurobehavioral impairments.”
HSV-1 located in or around the nose may lead to dementia, according to the study (Getty stock)
“Taking the intranasal route undoubtedly causes nerve damage, and the consequences are long-lasting, which is deeply concerning,” Shukla further noted.
Hemant Borase, a postdoctoral researcher at the University of Illinois Chicago and the study’s lead author, elaborated: “These findings pave the way for potential treatments aimed at reducing neuroinflammation and avoiding long-term brain damage from viral infections.”
Chandrashekhar Patil, a co-author of the study and research assistant professor in the College of Medicine, also shared his perspective.
“The virus remains active for life; it’s a permanent infection.
“Therefore, I believe raising awareness about this is crucial, especially among the vast population carrying the virus.”
That said, it’s important to emphasize that the infection spreading to the brain is exceedingly rare.
