Nigral overexpression of α‐synuclein in a rat Parkinson’s disease model indicates alterations in the enteric nervous system and the gut microbiome

Abstract

A hallmark feature of Parkinson's disease (PD) is the build‐up of α‐synuclein protein aggregates throughout the brain; however α‐synuclein is also expressed in enteric neurons. Gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms and pathology are frequently reported in PD, including constipation, increased intestinal permeability, glial pathology, and alterations to gut microbiota composition. α‐synuclein can propagate through neuronal systems but the site of origin of α‐synuclein pathology, whether it be the gut or the brain, is still unknown. Physical exercise is associated with alleviating symptoms of PD and with altering the composition of the gut microbiota.