Study of csgA Gene Presence and Changes in People Aged 18 to 80 With Parkinsons Disease and Past Gut Problems

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are exploring how often and how much the csgA gene, found in certain gut bacteria, appears and varies in people with Parkinsons Disease PD. This study aims to understand differences in the gut microbiome related to PD, especially given the diseases two main progression patterns brain-first and body-first. The body-first type involves the gut and related nerves, potentially influenced by bacterial proteins like csgA that may trigger disease processes. The study focuses on measuring the presence and week-to-week changes of the csgA gene in stool samples from participants diagnosed with PD who also have a history of gastrointestinal issues. Participants will provide baseline and weekly stool samples over four weeks to assess gene expression and variability. These measures help researchers understand the role of gut bacteria in PD and support future development of microbiome-targeted therapies. Participants will be involved for a short period during which they provide stool samples and complete assessments related to their gastrointestinal health and PD diagnosis. The primary outcomes include detecting csgA DNA in baseline and weekly stool samples. This observational study does not involve treatment but collects important data on gut bacterias relationship to PD progression, monitored closely by the research team over the study duration.

Research Into the Expression of the csgA-gene and How it Changes in Patients With Parkinson's Disease