THE ROLE OF THE GUT-BRAIN AXIS IN THE PATHOPHYSIOLOGY OF PARKINSON’S DISEASE: A CURRENT LITERATURE REVIEW

Parkinson’s Disease (PD) is a chronic neurodegenerative disorder characterized by the progressive loss of dopaminergic neurons. Recent scientific paradigms have shifted focus from the central nervous system to the bidirectional communication between the gastrointestinal tract and the brain, known as the gut-brain axis. This literature review aims to explore the mechanisms by which intestinal microbiota imbalance (dysbiosis) and gut inflammation contribute to PD pathogenesis through the spread of misfolded alpha-synuclein protein. Key factors such as immune responses, intestinal permeability, and microbial metabolites are identified as crucial elements in disease progression. A deeper understanding of this axis highlights the potential for novel microbiota-based therapeutic interventions to improve patient prognosis and mitigate the global burden of Parkinson's Disease.