Organized Crime in the Microbiome: How Hidden Infections Drive Alzheimer’s, Autoimmunity, and Chronic Disease with Nikki Schultek

What if diseases like Alzheimer's, interstitial cystitis, or severe asthma aren't just mysterious autoimmune failures, but are actually driven by hidden, stealth infections? In this eye-opening episode of the Lyme+ Podcast, hosts Dan and Kenzie sit down with Nikki Schultek, Principal and Founder of Intracell Research Group, Executive Director and Co-Founder of the Alzheimer's Pathobiome Initiative, and Founding Director of Pathobiome Research at the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine (PCOM).After surviving a year of terrifying, multi-system illness—including air hunger, severe asthma, debilitating bladder pain, and neurological symptoms mimicking MS, Nikki turned to medical research to save her own life. Her late-night Google search unveiled the connection between stealth pathogens like Chlamydia pneumoniae and chronic inflammation, completely altering her life's work. Now, Nikki works alongside world-renowned scientists to pioneer diagnostic consensus protocols and research how polymicrobial "organized crime" in the body drives neurodegenerative and chronic conditions.Connect with Our Guest & Resources Mentioned:Research Initiatives: Learn more about the Alzheimer's Pathobiome Initiative and the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine (PCOM) Pathobiome Research Center.Diagnostics Mentioned: Galaxy Diagnostics (NanoTrap urine testing for Borrelia), antibody testing for Chlamydia pneumoniae.Literature Referenced:Alzheimer's & Dementia (2023) paper on infectious dementiaDr. Bernard Raxlen & Allie Cashel (Lyme Disease: Medical Myopia)Organization Highlight: International Lyme and Associated Diseases Educational Foundation (ILADEF).Don't miss an episode of the Lyme+ Podcast! Find us and subscribe on your favorite streaming platform:🎧 Spotify | 🎙️ Apple PodcastsDisclaimer: The views expressed on Lyme+ are those of the speakers and do not necessarily reflect the views of Global Lyme Alliance Inc. or its affiliates. The content is informational and not medical advice. Always consult with a doctor or other healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment.