Parkinson’s Progression Linked to Gut and Mouth Bacteria
AI Reveals Potential Early Warning Signs for Cognitive Decline
Shifts in bacterial communities within the mouth and gut may signal worsening cognitive function in individuals with Parkinson’s disease, according to a new study. Researchers are exploring whether these microbial changes could serve as biomarkers for identifying patients at risk of dementia.
Microbial Imbalance and Brain Health
Scientists at King’s College London utilized artificial intelligence to connect alterations in gut and oral bacteria to cognitive decline—specifically, problems with memory and learning—in Parkinson’s patients. The research, published in the journal Gut Microbes, analyzed samples from over 120 participants.
Dr. Saeed Shoaie, group leader of the quantitative systems biology (QTS) lab, explained that disruptions in the gut-brain axis could trigger inflammation and immune responses that contribute to neuronal damage. “The human gut and oral bacterial communities are increasingly linked to neurodegenerative diseases.”
Potential Biomarkers for Dementia Risk
Approximately 30% of people diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease will eventually develop dementia, highlighting the need for early detection methods. The Alzheimer’s Association notes that Lewy body dementia, often associated with Parkinson’s, is the second most common type of dementia.
The study identified that individuals with mild cognitive impairment associated with Parkinson’s exhibited a greater abundance of harmful bacteria in their gut, many originating from the mouth. These bacteria release toxins that can compromise gut tissue, promote inflammation, and potentially impact brain function.
AI-Powered Analysis
To gain a more detailed understanding, the research team employed AI to identify bacterial species and functions often missed by conventional testing methods. This allowed them to specifically link toxins to cognitive decline. “We don’t yet know if the bacteria are causing the cognitive decline or if changes in the body due to Parkinson’s allow these bacteria to grow,”
stated Dr. Frederick Clasen, a research associate at the QTS lab. “But our findings suggest they may play an active role in worsening symptoms.”
Future Implications for Treatment
Researchers believe these identified toxins could potentially serve as biological markers to pinpoint patients at higher risk of dementia. Furthermore, they suggest these findings could pave the way for novel treatments aimed at modifying the gut environment to protect the brain.
Dr. Shoaie emphasized the importance of maintaining oral and gut health. “The emerging evidence underscores the potential importance of maintaining oral and gut health in mitigating or slowing neurodegenerative processes.”
He also noted that routine oral hygiene and nutritional intake may be overlooked in individuals with Parkinson’s who rely on caregivers.
The team suggests that promoting a healthy microbiome through consistent oral care, a balanced diet, and potentially targeted probiotic interventions could support improved disease management in Parkinson’s patients.
