In this episode of HZI InFact, Prof. Martin Korte, head of the research group "Neuroinflammation and Neurodegeneration" at the Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research (HZI), discusses the links between infections, the immune system, and the brain. How do viruses and bacteria affect our cognitive abilities? What role do they play in neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s and dementia? And how can we protect our brain in the long term?

Episode Topics:

• Why some infections cause neurological long-term effects
• How viruses and bacteria can indirectly attack our brain
• The role of the blood-brain barrier in infections
• Why the immune system affects the brain longer than other organs
• How vaccinations can help prevent neurodegenerative processes
• What measures keep the brain fit and healthy

Exclusive Insights:

Prof. Korte explains why the brain needs months to recover after an infection, even if the illness is over, and why older individuals are particularly at risk. He also shares practical tips on how everyone can actively protect their brain from infections and aging processes – from physical activity and healthy nutrition to lifelong learning.

Glossary:

Blood-Brain Barrier: A protective barrier between the bloodstream and the brain that shields the nervous system from harmful substances – but is not completely impenetrable.

Microglial Cells: Specialized immune cells in the brain responsible for its protection and regeneration, but also involved in inflammatory responses.

Sickness Behavior: A biological phenomenon that causes fatigue, lack of motivation, and social withdrawal during illness – an evolutionary defense mechanism of the body.

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