It has been known for several years that our intestinal health has an important influence on the functioning of the brain. More and more scientists are focusing on the so-called ‘gut-brain axis’, with the vagus nerve as the most important communication channel. The same goes for researchers from Leuven, who have made an important discovery.
Also read: The influence of the vagus nerve on our health
Bowel problems are an early symptom of both Parkinson’s disease and irritable bowel syndrome. The protein LRRK2 (leucine-rich repeat kinase 2) has been genetically linked to both conditions, but the exact mechanism has remained a mystery. Until now. Neuroscientists at KU Leuven have shown that the presence of mutant LRRK2 in immune cells causes an increased inflammatory response in the large intestine, which can eventually also lead to inflammation in the brain and thus contribute to neurodegeneration such as in Parkinson’s disease. a press release issued by KU Leuven.
Also read: The gut-brain-axis: determines mood and behavior
Mutation in LRRK2
It has previously been shown that one specific mutation in LRRK2 is the most important genetic cause of Parkinson’s disease. The team led by Professor Veerle Baekelandt studied mice with the same mutation and noticed an increased inflammatory response in the colon in the test animals. “Through a bone marrow transplant, we were able to demonstrate that the LRRK2 in immune cells was responsible for this. When we gave medication that blocks the function of LRRK2, the inflammation decreased,” explains Professor Baekelandt. “Conversely, if the inflammation persists for a longer period of time, the mutated immune cells can infiltrate the brain and contribute to an inflammatory response in the brain as we see in patients suffering from Parkinson’s disease.”
Read also: From a healthy belly to a healthy brain
Reduce inflammation with medication
The researchers succeeded in combating intestinal inflammation by means of medication that blocks the action of LRRK2. “From this study we learn that LRRK2 is an important factor in the course of the disease by acting on the immune response,” Professor Baekelandt continues. “Clinical studies are currently underway in Parkinson’s patients with drugs that block LRRK2, but these results show that people with irritable bowel syndrome could also be helped with this.”
Read also: What does stress do to your body in the short and long term?
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Last updated: August 2023
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2023-08-24 22:00:53
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