Researchers from Griffith University in Australia have discovered an unexpected mechanism by which bacteria entering the brain through damaged nasal tissue can stimulate processes characteristic of Alzheimer's disease. The findings of the respective study were published in the journal Scientific Reports.

In their experiments on mice, researchers found that the pneumonia-causing bacteria Chlamydia pneumoniae penetrates the brain through the olfactory nerve. This process is enhanced by damage to the tissues of the nasal cavity. In response to this infection, amyloid-beta proteins, the accumulations of which are characteristic of Alzheimer's disease, began to accumulate in the brains of mice.

Although this research was done on animals, its results raise concerns about possible risks to humans, too.

"We're the first to show that Chlamydia pneumoniae can go directly up the nose and into the brain where it can set off pathologies that look like Alzheimer's disease," said study co-author, neuroscientist James St. John from Griffith University

Although further research is needed in humans, researchers already recommend avoiding nose picking and picking hair, as these habits can damage the protective tissues of the nose.

According to the researchers, their discovery highlights the importance of studying the role of bacteria and viruses in the development of neurodegenerative diseases. Each step along the way brings humanity closer to understanding and preventing complex problems like Alzheimer's disease.