Tokyo, Japan – Researchers at Nagoya University in Japan have recently made groundbreaking discoveries linking gut microbes to Parkinson’s disease. A study conducted by Hiroshi Nishiwaki and his team revealed that specific changes in gut bacteria communities are associated with a decrease in essential B vitamins, such as riboflavin (vitamin B2) and biotin (vitamin B7), in individuals with Parkinson’s disease.
The neurodegenerative disease affects nearly 10 million people worldwide, with symptoms starting with constipation and sleep problems, progressing over 20 years into dementia and loss of muscle control. Previous research has shown that alterations in the microbiome occur long before other symptoms of Parkinson’s disease manifest. An analysis of fecal samples from 94 Parkinson’s patients and 73 healthy individuals in Japan, China, Taiwan, Germany, and the US demonstrated different bacteria groups influencing pathways that synthesize B vitamins in the body.
The study indicated a reduction in gut bacteria genes responsible for synthesizing riboflavin and biotin in individuals with Parkinson’s disease. This deficiency leads to a decrease in short-chain fatty acids and polyamines, essential for maintaining a healthy mucus layer in the intestines. The researchers suspect that thinning of this protective layer increases intestinal permeability, exposing the intestinal nervous system to toxins like cleaning chemicals, pesticides, and herbicides.
These toxins may lead to the overproduction of molecules known to accumulate in dopamine-producing cells in the brain, causing inflammation of the nervous system and exacerbating motor and dementia symptoms of Parkinson’s disease. Nishiwaki and his team suggest that high doses of B vitamins, specifically riboflavin, could help in recovering motor functions and potentially preventing damage. Additionally, maintaining a healthy gut microbiome and reducing exposure to pollutants in the environment may offer protection against Parkinson’s disease.
Given the complex nature of the disease, individual assessments may be necessary to identify specific deficiencies and administer targeted supplements for effective treatment. The potential use of gut microbiota analysis and fecal metabolite analysis could aid in identifying patients who would benefit from oral riboflavin and biotin supplements. This research was published in npj Parkinson’s Disease, offering promising insights into future treatments for the disease.