A new study has presented more evidence backing up a hypothesis suggesting viral infections in the olfactory system can accelerate the progression of Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Instead of focusing on specific viruses, the research looked at the relationship between biomarkers of viral infections and neurodegeneration in the hippocampus.

For decades, researchers have reported an association between brain diseases and acute viral infections. The herpes simplex virus in particular has long been associated with the development of Alzheimer’s disease. But exactly how viral infections could be influencing neurodegeneration has been unclear.

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This new research focused specifically on the olfactory system. Loss of one’s sense of smell has been found to be a potential early marker of Alzheimer’s neurodegeneration. So, the question explored here is whether viral infections in the nose play a role in accelerating Alzheimer’s decline.

Read more: New Atlas