Bacterium Linked to Alzheimer's Progression

A study published in Nature Communications indicates that Chlamydia pneumoniae, a bacterium frequently causing sinus infections, could worsen Alzheimer's disease. Researchers from Cedars-Sinai found this bacterium in the retinal tissue of deceased individuals with Alzheimer's, suggesting a link between ocular infection and neurodegeneration.

The bacterium's presence in the retina, which is connected to the brain, may lead to inflammation and nerve cell death. This process could contribute to cognitive decline and exacerbate Alzheimer's symptoms. The findings propose that identifying and treating Chlamydia pneumoniae infections with specific antibiotics in early stages might offer a new therapeutic avenue.

While the study highlights a potential association between the bacterium and increased inflammation, nerve cell death, and cognitive decline, experts emphasize that more research is needed to establish causation. The current findings do not suggest that common respiratory infections cause Alzheimer's but open doors for potential diagnostics and treatments.