Parkinson’s biomarker may originate in gut
Using mouse models, researchers seeded alpha-synuclein aggregates in gut neurons and discovered the clumps can travel to neurons in the brain.... Read More...
gut-brain axis
Gut microbes may improve stroke recovery
Microbiota-derived short-chain fatty acids (SCFA) modulate stroke recovery. The effect was mediated by circulating lymphocytes on microglia activation. The study reports SCFAs could be a potential therapeutic to improve post-stroke recovery.... Read More...
Fat-dissolving bile acids may help regulate gut immunity and inflammation
Two studies reveal the role bile acids play in immunity and inflammation. ... Read More...
Harnessing the microbiome to improve stroke recovery
Short-chain fatty acid supplementation improves stroke recovery in mouse models.... Read More...
The gut may be involved in the development of multiple sclerosis
Increased levels of Smad7 in T-cells is linked to multiple sclerosis-like symptoms in mice. In the intestines, the T-cells were more frequently activated and migrated to the central nervous system, where they triggered inflammation. Similar activation was seen in human patients with multiple sclerosis. The findings provide further evidence that multiple sclerosis may start in the intestines and spread via the CNS.... Read More...
Inflammatory bowel disease appears to impact risk of Parkinson’s disease
Study provides new insights into how the immune system and inflammation play a role in the development and progression of Parkinson's disease.... Read More...
Bacteria in the gut may alter aging process
Transplanting gut microbiota from older mice to younger germ-free mice increased hippocampal neurogenesis and intestinal growth.... Read More...
Where does Parkinson’s disease start? In the brain or gut? Or both?
Lewy body disorders, including Parkinson's disease and Lewy body dementia, comprise of two distinct subtypes. One subtype originates in the peripheral nervous system (PNS) of the gut and spreads to the brain. The other originates in the brain, or enters the brain via the olfactory system, before spreading to the brainstem and PNS.... Read More...
A possible gut-brain connection to ‘chemo brain’
Manipulating gut bacteria in mice before chemotherapy reduces the mental fog of "chemo brain."... Read More...
Micronutrients affect gut bacteria associated with ADHD in small but promising study
A small-scale study found children with ADHD who took micronutrients had lower levels of gut bacteria previously linked to the disorder, and a healthier range of overall microbiota. The study indicates micronutrient supplements could be a safe therapy for those with ADHD. Researchers stress further research is needed.... Read More...
Looking to the body to better understand the brain
From researching the microbiome and immune system to nociception, scientists are looking beyond the nervous system to gain a better understanding of neurological and mental health disorders.... Read More...
Gut microbes may affect the course of ALS
Researchers have isolated a molecule that may be under-produced in the gut of those with ALS. Using mouse models of the disease, researchers identified 11 microbial strains that became altered as the disease progressed, or before the development of symptoms. ... Read More...