Specific alterations in the microbiome the community of bacteria in the mouth and gut have been linked to cognitive decline in Parkinson’s disease. This includes the progression from mild memory problems to dementia a frequent and troubling symptom.

These microbiome changes could serve as early indicators of Parkinson’s offering the potential to detect and manage the disease before symptoms significantly worsen. At present early diagnosis remains challenging due to the slow and gradual onset of symptoms.

The study led by King’s College London adds to growing evidence that gut and brain health are closely connected. Although the gut-brain relationship has been widely researched few studies have specifically examined its role in cognitive decline related to neurodegenerative diseases like Parkinson’s.

Published in Gut Microbes the study analyzed gut and oral bacteria from 228 stool and saliva samples. Participants included two groups of Parkinson’s patients those with mild cognitive impairment and those with dementia representing different stages of the disease along with a healthy control group without Parkinson’s.

This phenomenon called oral-gut translocation refers to oral bacteria migrating to the gut a place where they typically don’t reside. Once there these bacteria release virulence factors which are toxins capable of damaging gut tissue triggering inflammation and potentially influencing brain function.

Dr. Clasen added: These toxins could serve as biomarkers to detect Parkinson’s patients at greater risk of developing dementia. In the future they may also become targets for therapies aimed at protecting the brain by modifying the gut microbiome.

He further noted Our results indicate that fostering a healthy microbiome through consistent oral hygiene a balanced diet and possibly targeted probiotic interventions could contribute to more effective disease management in Parkinson’s.

Future research will focus on determining whether these bacteria and their toxins have a direct effect on brain function and whether modifying the microbiome through dietary changes oral hygiene practices or pharmacological approaches can help delay or prevent dementia in individuals with Parkinson’s disease.

Source: https://www.kcl.ac.uk/news/mouth-and-gut-bacteria-linked-to-brain-changes-in-parkinsons-disease