More on Parkinson's Disease and the gut

Microbes make beneficial agents progesterone and propionate. From gut, α-synuclein travels up the vagus PREMIUM CONTENT subscriber access

Every week when I assess the latest research news, the gut microbiome pops up with more fascinating findings. Past newsletters described many of its effects and actions. This one, will focus on Parkinson’s Disease (PD) related research.

• Intestinal microbes can synthesize progesterone from the glucocorticoids circulating in the secreted bile.

• The neurotoxin, α-synuclein, is produced in the gut and then transports up the vagus nerve to the CNS

• Short Chain Fatty Acids (SCFAs) such as propionate, can rescue the nerves from α-synuclein induced damage.