Gut-Brain Signaling in Parkinson's Disease: A Narrative Review

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Microbiology
• Gastroenterology

Background:

• The gut-brain-microbiota axis (GBA) theory provides new insights into Parkinson's disease (PD) pathogenesis.
• Parkinson's disease pathology may originate in the gut, preceding brain involvement and motor symptoms.
• Gut microbiota influence nervous system function via intestinal permeability, inflammation, and alpha-synuclein aggregation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the GBA as a link between gut microbiota and neurotransmitter metabolism in PD.
• To review current research on the gut epithelial barrier.
• To analyze therapeutic interventions targeting gut microbiota for PD.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of GBA and PD research.
• Analysis of gut microbiota's role in neurotransmitter synthesis and metabolism.
• Examination of therapeutic strategies like probiotics, prebiotics, and fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT).

Main Results:

• Gut microbiota influence neurotransmitter regulation (dopamine, serotonin, acetylcholine, GABA) in both gut and brain.
• The vagus nerve transmits signals from the enteric nervous system to the central nervous system.
• Therapeutic interventions targeting the GBA show potential for symptomatic and disease-modifying treatment of PD.

Conclusions:

• The GBA plays a crucial role in PD development and progression.
• Modulating gut microbiota offers promising avenues for novel PD treatments.
• Further research into the GBA is essential for developing effective PD therapies.