Gut microbe mix may spark Parkinson’s

In mice, brain inflammation, motor problems linked to intestinal bacteria

mouse microglia

GUT IMPULSE Signals from gut microbes can activate immune cells called microglia (shown here in green) in the mouse brain, causing inflammation that’s characteristic of Parkinson’s disease.

Tim Sampson/Caltech

For clues to Parkinson’s brain symptoms, a gut check is in order.