Alzheimer’s disease is the most common form of dementia and affects millions of people worldwide. Despite decades of intensive research, the underlying causes remain incompletely understood. Emerging evidence now suggests that genetic remnants of ancient viral infections may play a previously underestimated role in disease development. This hypothesis is at the center of a new research project led by Dr. Michelle Vincendeau at Helmholtz Munich, funded by the Alzheimer Initiative e.V. with €134,000 from January 2026 through the end of 2027.
When Viral Relics Are Reactivated
The human genome contains numerous remnants of ancient viral infections, known as endogenous retroviruses. Under normal conditions, these genetic elements remain tightly silenced. However, under certain circumstances they can become reactivated. Dr. Vincendeau’s research examines whether and how such viral elements contribute to the onset and progression of Alzheimer’s disease, and which cellular pathways are affected as a result.
Advanced Cell Models for a Complex Disease
The team uses state-of-the-art biochemical approaches to selectively activate or silence viral elements in human neurons. These neurons are generated in the laboratory from skin cells of individuals with Alzheimer’s disease as well as from healthy older donors. The researchers then assess how changes in viral activity influence key hallmarks of Alzheimer’s pathology, including protein aggregation, cellular stress responses, and inflammatory processes.
To increase physiological relevance, the experiments are also conducted in three-dimensional brain organoids. These mini-brain models enable the investigation of complex processes of the human brain under controlled experimental conditions.
New Mechanisms, New Therapeutic Perspectives
The goal of the project is to identify previously unrecognized mechanisms underlying Alzheimer’s disease. The insights gained may provide a foundation for novel therapeutic strategies – particularly for patients in whom no established risk factors can be identified. By linking fundamental molecular research with clinical relevance, the project has the potential to make a meaningful contribution to Alzheimer’s research.
“A deeper understanding of the biological mechanisms underlying Alzheimer’s disease is essential for the development of effective therapies. Dementia affects not only patients themselves, but also their families and society as a whole. The opportunity to contribute to prevention or treatment through research is what motivates me every day,” emphasizes Dr. Michelle Vincendeau.
