Study of Gut Microbiota and Brain Connection in Parkinsons Disease Using 18F-FDG PET and Tc-99m TRODAT-1 SPECT Imaging

What this Trial Is About

This research aims to explore the Microbiota-gut-brain axis, a communication system between the gut and brain, particularly in relation to Parkinsons disease PD. The study investigates how gut bacteria and intestinal function may affect PD development by examining the relationship between intestinal FDG activity patterns and dopamine transporter changes using imaging techniques. The study focuses on understanding the role of gut microbiota and intestinal permeability in PD pathogenesis and brain function. Participants undergo imaging tests including 18F-FDG PET to evaluate gut microbiota composition and Tc-99m TRODAT-1 SPECT to assess the dopamine system in the brain. The study includes PD patients and a control group without PD, and the research team will analyze correlations between bowel FDG uptake and dopamine transporter degeneration. Both imaging procedures are part of the study assessments covered by research funds. During the study, participants will be evaluated using visual scoring of physiological parameters related to bowel FDG uptake over an average period of two years. Clinical staging of PD will be assessed using specific rating scales. Participants must fast before imaging and avoid certain medications. The study will monitor imaging results and clinical data to better understand PDs underlying mechanisms and explore potential new therapeutic approaches.

A Proof-of-concept Study Evaluating the Microbiota-gut-brain Axis