The role of gut-derived short-chain fatty acids in Parkinson's disease

Neurogenetics. 2024 Oct;25(4):307-336. doi: 10.1007/s10048-024-00779-3. Epub 2024 Sep 13.

Abstract

The emerging function of short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) in Parkinson's disease (PD) has been investigated in this article. SCFAs, which are generated via the fermentation of dietary fiber by gut microbiota, have been associated with dysfunction of the gut-brain axis and, neuroinflammation. These processes are integral to the development of PD. This article examines the potential therapeutic implications of SCFAs in the management of PD, encompassing their capacity to modulate gastrointestinal permeability, neuroinflammation, and neuronal survival, by conducting an extensive literature review. As a whole, this article emphasizes the potential therapeutic utility of SCFAs as targets for the management and treatment of PD.

Keywords: Neurodegeneration; Neuroprotection; Parkinson's disease; Short-chain fatty acids.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Brain-Gut Axis* / physiology
  • Dietary Fiber / metabolism
  • Fatty Acids, Volatile* / metabolism
  • Gastrointestinal Microbiome*
  • Humans
  • Parkinson Disease* / metabolism

Substances

  • Fatty Acids, Volatile
  • Dietary Fiber