Nose Picking might potentially be Linked to Alzheimer’s, New research Suggests
GOLD COAST, AUSTRALIA – A surprising new link between a common habit and the progress of Alzheimer’s disease has emerged from research conducted at Griffith university. Scientists have discovered that Chlamydia pneumoniae, a bacterium frequently inhaled and frequently enough causing mild respiratory infections, can travel directly to the brain via the olfactory nerve – and nose picking may increase the risk.
The study, published in Scientific Reports on February 1, 2023, details how the bacterium triggered the deposition of amyloid beta protein in the brains of mice, a hallmark of Alzheimer’s disease.Researchers found the bacteria entered the central nervous system through the olfactory nerve, which connects the nasal cavity to the brain and bypasses the blood-brain barrier. Damage to the nasal septum, such as that caused by frequent nose picking, can create easier access for the pathogen.
Chlamydia pneumoniae is a common airborne pathogen that often causes no symptoms or mild sore throats.However,it can lead to pneumonia in individuals with compromised immune systems.The Griffith University team’s experiments revealed that once inside the brain, the bacterium prompted brain cells to deposit amyloid beta protein, the primary component of the plaques characteristic of dementia.
“The olfactory nerve extends between the nasal cavity and the brain,” researchers explain. “Picking yoru nose and pulling hair out of your nose can increase the risk of the bacteria getting into the brain, as the mucous membrane on the nasal septum is damaged by the popping.”
While the study was conducted on mice, researchers are now investigating whether the same process occurs in humans.The findings suggest that avoiding nose picking could be a simple preventative measure to reduce the risk of introducing pathogens directly into the brain and perhaps contributing to the development of Alzheimer’s disease.
https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-022-06749-9
