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Abstract
Emerging evidence suggests that Parkinson's disease is associated with disturbances in gut bacteria and their metabolites.
- Bacterial products from tryptophan, particularly indole compounds, may link intestinal imbalances to neurodegeneration.
- There is a reduction in beneficial bacteria that produce indoles and an increase in harmful bacteria that convert tryptophan into toxic substances.
- This shift could disrupt the function of the epithelial and blood-brain barriers and increase inflammation and oxidative stress in the brain.
- Beneficial metabolites like indole-3-propionic acid and indole-3-acetic acid may help protect against neuroinflammation and support barrier stability.
- Conversely, harmful metabolites such as indoxyl sulfate could contribute to neuroinflammation and neuron loss.
- These findings indicate a potential metabolic imbalance between protective and harmful indoles in Parkinson's disease.
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