Parkinson’s disease can be diagnosed before the onset of symptoms. Changes in the intestinal microbiome can reveal an increased risk of this neurological disease. This follows from a study by scientists from University College London, who also reported on a new possible method of treatment.
Scientists have identified specific changes in the composition of intestinal microorganisms. These were more pronounced in people with a genetic risk, and even more evident in patients in whom the disease had already manifested itself. “The same changes can be found in a small proportion of the general population, which may mean an increased risk.” said research leader Anthony Schapira.
Parkinson’s disease affects more than 8.5 million people worldwide, and the number of cases has doubled in the last twenty-five years. The disease causes gradual damage to the brain, leading to tremors, slowness of movement and muscle stiffness. Depression, anxiety, sleep, memory and balance disorders are also common.
The researchers analyzed the data of 271 patients with Parkinson’s disease, forty-three people with the risk gene without symptoms and 150 healthy people. The representation of more than a quarter of bacterial species differed among patients. A similar pattern emerged in genetically at-risk individuals without symptoms.
According to Schapir, bacteria can affect the production of the protein alpha-synuclein. “Certain bacteria cause inflammation in the gut wall, which increases the level of alpha-synuclein, which is then carried by the vagus nerve from the gut to the brain,” mien Schapira.
It is not yet clear whether changes in the microbiome cause the disease or are a consequence of it. The study found that people with a risky microbiome ate more processed foods and saturated fat and less fruit, vegetables, fiber, fish and legumes.
