Groundbreaking new research in Parkinson's disease

Research published today in the journal Cell Reports (https://www.cell.com/cell-reports/fulltext/S2211-1247(19)31743-7) has shown that, in an animal model (Caenorhabditis elegans - microscopic nematode) of Parkinson’s disease, a commercially available bacterial strain (Bacillus subtilis PXN21, ADM Protexin Ltd.) was able to both protect and clear toxic accumulations of the hallmark protein (a-synuclein). Aggregations of this protein are responsible for killing specific nerve cells (dopaminergic) in the brain (substantia nigra) that lead to the characteristic motor symptoms (e.g. – rigidity, tremors and instability) of Parkinson’s. There are currently no curative options for this common and highly disabling neurological disease, thus, as the authors conclude, the potential of B. subtilis PXN21 to modify a-synuclein aggregation in humans could offer exciting future possibilities for diet-based, disease-modifying interventions. Additional rodent and human research results are eagerly awaited.