Until recently, experts have been baffled by what exactly causes Alzheimer’s, and powerless at slowing or reversing the progress of the condition. However, according to some scientists, Alzheimer’s may not be a disease but an infection, caused by a bacteria.
 
According to new findings published in journal Science Advances, the bacterial culprit causing Alzheimer’s comes from an unexpected quarter: gum disease. In their research paper, scientists have reported the discovery of Porphyromonas gingivalis, the pathogen behind gum disease, in the brains of deceased Alzheimer’s patients. In addition, the team identified toxic enzymes, gingipains, secreted by the bacteria in the brains of Alzheimer’s patients.
 
With this finding, the possibility of some form of cure for Alzheimer’s seems more realistic.

February 2019