Parkinson's Disease and the Microbiota-Gut-Brain Axis: Metabolites, Mechanisms, and Innovative Therapeutic Strategies Targeting the Gut Microbiota

The human gut microbiota is diverse and abundant and plays important roles in regulating health by participating in metabolism and controlling physiological activities. The gut microbiota and its metabolites have been shown to affect the functioning of the gut and central nervous system through the microbiota-gut-brain axis. It is well established that microbiota play significant roles in the pathogenesis and progression of Parkinson's disease (PD). Disorders of the intestinal microbiota and altered metabolite levels are closely associated with PD. Here, the changes in intestinal microbiota and effects of metabolites in patients with PD are reviewed. Potential mechanisms underlying intestinal microbiota disorders in the pathogenesis of PD are briefly discussed. Additionally, we outline the current strategies for the treatment of PD that target the gut microbiota, emphasizing the development of promising novel strategies.