Alzheimer’s linked to infection of the brain by gum disease bacterium

A bacterial infection better known for causing gum disease may be leading to the development of Alzheimer’s disease in some patients by entering the brain and releasing enzymes that attack important proteins. Scientists at the company Cortexyme, working with academics from around the world, say the findings of their study could lead to new treatment options for Alzheimer’s disease sufferers that work by targeting the bacterium Porphyromonas gingivalis, and they have developed a candidate drug that is currently undergoing clinical trials.