Researchers are exploring how gut problems, like constipation, affect diseases like Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s. They believe that microorganisms in the gut producing methane gas might be linked to disease progression. The study will have two parts:
Component 1: Observational study with 200 participants divided into four groups: people with Parkinson’s disease, those at high risk, others with cognitive issues, and healthy individuals. Participants will visit twice, 18 months apart, for breath, stool, and blood tests to understand methane's impact on disease progression.
Component 2: A smaller study with 15 Parkinson’s patients who have high methane levels. They will take a probiotic, Lactobacillus reuteri, for 18 months to see if it reduces methane production.
- The study involves multiple visits, each 18 months apart.
- Participants may undergo breath, stool, and blood tests.
- Potential benefits include contributing to Parkinson's and Alzheimer's research.