Gut bacteria linked to Parkinson's symptoms

Changes in the bacteria found in the mouth and gut of Parkinson’s disease patients could act as an early warning sign that their symptoms are worsening, new research suggests.

- STORM NEWTON

Scientists, using artificial intelligence (AI), have linked these bacterial changes to cognitive decline – which includes memory and learning problems – in people with the disease.

The toxins could potentially be used as “markers” for doctors to identify Parkinson’s patients at a higher risk of developing dementia, as well as helping to develop targeted treatments for the disease, the researchers suggest.

Parkinson’s disease is a progressive condition that affects the brain, with symptoms including involuntary shaking, known as tremors, as well as psychological problems such as depression, loss of balance, trouble sleeping and memory issues.

According to the Alzheimer’s Society, around a third of people with Parkinson’s eventually develop dementia.

Dr Saeed Shoaie, group leader of the quantitative systems biology (QTS) lab at King’s College London, said: “The human gut and oral bacterial communities are increasingly linked to neurodegenerative diseases.