10. Viral Infections: Unseen Invaders
A much-debated potential cause of ALS is viral infection. Certain viruses are known to attack the nervous system, leading to diseases like polio and meningitis. Might they also contribute to ALS? This is a question that has intrigued researchers for decades, leading to fascinating insights and heated debates.
Viruses like the Human endogenous retroviruses (HERVs) and the Epstein-Barr virus have been implicated in ALS. These viruses can integrate their genetic material into the host’s DNA, potentially disrupting the normal function of genes and leading to the death of motor neurons.
Furthermore, viral infections can trigger a strong immune response, leading to inflammation. If this inflammation becomes chronic, it could contribute to neuronal damage, as seen in ALS.
It’s also worth mentioning that viral infections can cause oxidative stress, another factor thought to contribute to ALS. During an infection, the body produces reactive oxygen species to combat the virus, but these molecules can also cause damage to the body’s cells, including neurons.
Despite the compelling hypotheses, the evidence linking viral infections to ALS remains controversial. While some studies have found associations, others have not, highlighting the complexity of this potential relationship.
While viruses might not directly cause ALS, their potential contribution to the disease should not be dismissed outright. More research is needed to uncover whether viruses play a part in ALS and how we might use this information to develop better treatments and preventative strategies. (10)
