Gut microbiota and microRNAs as biomarkers in Parkinson's disease: early identification, diagnostic and potential treatments

The gut microbiota can affect both the enteric and the central nervous system, influencing individuals and their brain regulation. In this work, different pieces of scientific evidence are discussed, showing the relationship between changes in the microbiota and neurocognitive deterioration, focussing on Parkinson's disease (PD). Other factors that may cause or contribute to PD aetiology are the interactions between environmental factors and genetic susceptibility. According to the existing literature, there are several methods for the identification of neurocognitive impairment in different neurological diseases. However, such methods do not allow early identification, and therefore, the possibility of using other types of more effective diagnostic biomarkers in PD has also been investigated. Since this disease is characterised by specific microRNA (miRNA) expression, and the gut microbiota is an important factor in both PD and miRNA expression, the aim of this review is thoroughly analysing the role of microbiota and microRNAs in PD development. In addition, the relationship between these two factors and potential treatments will be also discussed.