Work

Dysbiosis of the Gut Microbiota Being a Contributing Factor to Parkinson’s Disease: A Literature Review

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a prevalent neurodegenerative disorder characterized by symptoms such as tremors, dementia, and bradykinesia. Early non-motor signs, including constipation and hyposmia, suggest a potential connection between PD and the gut. The loss of dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra is a hallmark of PD, with unknown causes. While current treatments provide symptom relief, there are no therapies to slow the progression of the disease. The gut microbiota plays a role in inflammatory and immune responses and has been implicated in neurological disorders. The connection between gut microbiota and neurodegenerative disease remains unclear. In this paper, we aim to explore the potential link between gut microbiome dysbiosis in PD, focusing on constipation, which is an early symptom of the disease. Our review will examine the evidence that suggests the possibility of chronic intestinal inflammation that may contribute to the development of Parkinson’s disease and implicate further connections with other neurodegenerative diseases.

Source: Scholarly Research In Progress

DOI: 10.64057/001c.150233

Authors: Maria Gikoska, Thomas S. K. Gilbert, Lucyna A. Wierzbicki, Arabella R. Thompson, Brian J. Piper

Institution: Geisinger College of Health Sciences

Language: English

Topic: Parkinson's Disease Mechanisms and Treatments

Subfield: Neurology

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: bronze

Funder: Geisinger Commonwealth School of Medicine