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Different Brain Regions are Infected with Fungi in Alzheimer's Disease

Diana Pisa1, Ruth Alonso1, Alberto Rábano2

  • 1Centro de Biología Molecular "Severo Ochoa". c/Nicolás Cabrera, 1. Universidad Autónoma de Madrid. Cantoblanco. 28049 Madrid. Spain.

Scientific Reports
|October 16, 2015
PubMed

Insights

Alzheimer's disease (AD) may be linked to fungal infections. This study found fungal cells and DNA in the central nervous system (CNS) of AD patients, but not in healthy individuals, suggesting a potential microbial cause.

Area of Science:

  • Neuroscience
  • Mycology
  • Pathology

Background:

  • The microbial etiology of Alzheimer's disease (AD) is an emerging area of research.
  • Previous studies have suggested a potential link between microorganisms and AD pathogenesis.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the presence of fungal infection in the central nervous system (CNS) of Alzheimer's disease patients.
  • To determine if fungal presence correlates with AD pathology.

Main Methods:

  • Detection of fungal cells and hyphae in CNS tissue using specific antibodies.
  • Analysis of fungal material in various brain regions and blood vessels.
  • Sequencing of fungal DNA extracted from CNS samples.

Main Results:

  • Fungal cells and hyphae were detected within the CNS of Alzheimer's disease patients.
  • Fungal material was found both intra- and extracellularly, and in brain regions and blood vessels.
  • All ten additional AD patients analyzed showed signs of fungal infection, which was absent in control individuals.
  • Sequencing identified several fungal species in the CNS of AD patients.

Conclusions:

  • The findings provide compelling evidence for fungal infection in the CNS of AD patients.
  • Fungal presence in blood vessels may explain associated vascular pathology.
  • This study supports a potential microbial etiology for Alzheimer's disease.

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