Zika Virus Affects Adult Brains, New Study Finds
A groundbreaking study published in Cell Stem Cell explores the effects of Zika virus on adult brains for the first time. The research, led by Joseph Gleeson, challenges the notion that adult Zika infections are harmless.
The study, authored by an unknown researcher alongside Gleeson, reveals that Zika can infiltrate adult brains and impact specific neurons. These neurons are crucial for replacing lost or damaged cells and for learning and memory processes.
In mouse models, some adult neurons showed susceptibility to Zika infection. While symptoms may be mild or unnoticeable, potential long-term effects include impairments to long-term memory or increased risk of depression. Further research is needed to fully understand these long-term impacts on adult stem cell populations.
The first study on Zika's effects on adult brains underscores the importance of further investigation. Adult Zika infections may not be as innocuous as initially thought, potentially leading to subtle yet significant long-term impacts on brain health.
