Association between herpes simplex virus 1 and dementia: a systematic review protocol

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Virology
• Epidemiology

Background:

• Herpes simplex virus 1 (HSV-1) is highly prevalent globally, affecting two-thirds of individuals under 50.
• The association between HSV-1 infection and neurodegenerative diseases, particularly dementia and Alzheimer's disease, is not well understood.

Purpose of the Study:

• To elucidate the potential link between HSV-1 infection and dementia.
• To explore the benefits of preventing or treating herpesvirus infections in reducing dementia risk.
• To enhance understanding of HSV-1's role in dementia for future therapeutic development.

Main Methods:

• Systematic review of multiple databases (PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, Scopus, etc.) from inception.
• Inclusion criteria: studies with HSV-1 exposure and dementia/subtypes as outcomes.
• Data extraction, risk of bias assessment (Cochrane), and evidence quality evaluation (GRADE); random-effects model meta-analysis planned.

Main Results:

• This section is to be populated upon completion of the systematic review and data analysis.
• Expected to synthesize findings on HSV-1 exposure and dementia risk across various populations and subtypes.

Conclusions:

• This review will provide insights into the relationship between HSV-1 and dementia.
• Findings may inform strategies for dementia prevention and treatment by targeting herpesvirus infections.