Viral infections can accelerate the progression of ALS, researchers find
A new study from McMaster University suggests that common viral infections—like influenza or COVID-19—may accelerate the onset and progression of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, or ALS.
Researchers at McMaster University have discovered that common viral infections, such as influenza or COVID-19, may speed up both the onset and progression of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). While the link between infections and neurodegenerative diseases has been observed before, the specific mechanisms behind this connection have been unclear. The new study, published in Nature Communications, suggests that the immune response triggered by these infections plays a key role in accelerating ALS.
The study, led by Professor Matthew Miller, monitored animal models of ALS following infection with either influenza A virus or SARS-CoV-2. Compared to uninfected animals, the infected models showed a much faster decline in motor function. The researchers found that even respiratory viruses, which do not directly infect neurons, can cause lasting changes to the nervous system.
In the animal models, these infections triggered an inflammatory response called gliosis in the spinal cord, a process already known to play a role in ALS. However, the findings suggest that an infection may amplify this process, leading to accelerated disease progression.
One of the most striking aspects of the study is that a single viral infection could significantly accelerate ALS progression, even after the infection itself had cleared. The researchers also discovered that antiviral treatments and suppression of gliosis with anti-inflammatory drugs led to a significant reduction in the rate of ALS progression in the animal models. This suggests that preventing or limiting common infections could potentially protect the nervous system from the damage that accelerates ALS.
While there is currently no cure for ALS, the findings highlight the potential for new therapeutic interventions to delay the onset and slow the progression of the disease. The researchers are now exploring the development of better vaccines and antiviral therapies, as well as improved public trust in these interventions, to not only protect against infectious diseases but also potentially safeguard against the damage they may cause to the nervous system.
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