Science and Technology News

CUSAT-SCTIMST Study

November 1 , 2026 1 hrs 0 min 35 0

A Cochin University of Science and Technology (CUSAT) and Sree Chitra Tirunal Institute for Medical Sciences and Technology (SCTIMST) study found differences in gut bacteria between people with Parkinson’s disease and healthy individuals.
The study found higher levels of inflammation-associated bacteria and lower levels of short-chain-fatty-acid-producing bacteria in patients.
Short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), such as butyrate, acetate and propionate, help maintain the gut lining and regulate immunity.
The study also reported reduced microbial genes linked to Vitamin B2 (riboflavin) and Vitamin B7 (biotin) production.
Parkinson’s disease involves the loss of dopamine-producing neurons, mainly in the substantia nigra.