Could Alzheimer’s Be Caused by Infection?

The dominant origin story of Alzheimer’s focuses on the build-up of amyloid protein “clumps” on the brain.
 
But after being downright ridiculed, a second theory—that infection could be what triggers the production of these amyloid clumps—is gaining traction, as new research suggests that the 2 theories may not be mutually exclusive, Nature reports.
 
Which pathogens could be the culprit? One prominent suspect is herpes viruses—though study results have been mixed and show correlation, not causation. Still, the theory has spurred new research.  
 
Meanwhile aducanumab, the first new Alzheimer’s treatment in 2 decades—a monoclonal antibody that targets beta amyloid—seems poised for FDA approval, The Washington Post reports. Despite a bumpy road and mixed reviews of trial results, aducanumab could be on track to become one of the top-selling drugs ever.
 
Related: FDA scientists appear to offer major endorsement of Biogen’s controversial Alzheimer’s treatment – STAT