Key points from article :
Researchers are investigating the link between the gut microbiome and the risk of Parkinson's and Alzheimer's diseases.
People diagnosed with Parkinson's disease had lower abundance of certain anti-inflammatory bacteria in their gut.
"...gut microbiome may serve as a biomarker for early PD and has the potential to revolutionize the diagnosis and treatment,” - Natalia Palacios, lead author.
The gut-brain axis, a communication system connecting the gastrointestinal tract and central nervous system, plays a critical role.
Researchers are now studying the connection between the gut microbiome and Alzheimer's disease with a $2 million grant.
Puerto Ricans, who face health disparities, have a 50% greater risk of Alzheimer's disease, making them subjects of the study.
Aims to identify gut composition, bacteria species, & harmful molecules that will lead to novel biomarkers for Alzheimer's disease.
Study by UMass Lowell Zuckerberg College of Health Sciences published in the Annals of Neurology.
