Investigating the connection between the gut and brain in Parkinson's disease
Gut-brain axis in Parkinson's disease
This study is looking at how problems in the gut, like constipation, might be linked to the start of Parkinson's disease and how certain factors could make it worse, all while exploring ways to improve gut health through brain stimulation.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Toledo Health Sci Campus NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Toledo, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10706342 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research explores how Parkinson's disease may begin in the gastrointestinal tract and spread to the brain through the vagus nerve. It examines the relationship between gut symptoms, such as constipation, and the onset of Parkinson's disease. By using a novel rodent model, the study investigates how certain environmental factors may contribute to the disease's progression and how stimulating specific brain regions can affect gut motility. The findings aim to enhance understanding of the gut-brain axis and its role in Parkinson's disease.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals experiencing gastrointestinal symptoms that may be related to Parkinson's disease or those with a family history of the condition.
Not a fit: Patients who do not have gastrointestinal symptoms or a diagnosis of Parkinson's disease are unlikely to benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies targeting gut health to potentially delay or prevent the onset of Parkinson's disease.
How similar studies have performed: Other research has indicated a potential link between gut health and neurological conditions, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
Toledo, United States
- University of Toledo Health Sci Campus — Toledo, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Subramanian, Thyagarajan — University of Toledo Health Sci Campus
- Study coordinator: Subramanian, Thyagarajan
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.