Scientists from the University of Hong Kong’s School of Biological Sciences have discovered that a short-chain fatty acid called propionate reverses neurodegeneration in Parkinson’s disease by regulating specific signals between the gut and brain. Research results published In the journal Cell Reports.
Parkinson’s disease is a slowly developing disease of the central nervous system, characterized by slowness of movements, tremors at rest, and impaired reflexes. The disease is based on damage to nerve cells (neurons) in the brain stem.
In their study, the scientists focused on SCFAs, a class of bacterial metabolites that include acetic, propionic and butyric acids. They are produced by intestinal bacteria as a result of the fermentation of dietary fiber. Researchers also found that rodents with Alzheimer’s disease had reduced levels of propionic acid in their bodies. This led scientists to suggest that increasing propionate levels may suppress neurodegeneration.
During the experiment, scientists increased the concentration of propionate in the bodies of the test rodents by removing vitamin B12 from their diets (which causes propionate to break down) or by using nutritional supplements. It turned out that increasing the production of propionate in the intestine and restoring the expression of key regulators of the metabolism of this substance significantly slows down neurodegeneration.
The study authors suggested that this effect was due to the functioning of the gut-brain axis. It is a two-way biochemical signal that occurs between the gastrointestinal tract and the central nervous system.
Scientists emphasized that propionate, like all SCFAs, is formed in the intestines as a result of the processing of fibers. Vegetables and fruits are rich in these dietary fibers. Increasing the proportion of plant foods (seeds, nuts, fruits and vegetables) in your diet may also have beneficial effects on brain health, researchers say.
Previously neurologist saidHow long can you delay the development of Parkinson’s disease?
What are you thinking?
Source: Gazeta
Barbara Dickson is a seasoned writer for “Social Bites”. She keeps readers informed on the latest news and trends, providing in-depth coverage and analysis on a variety of topics.