Efficacy and Safety of Fecal Microbiota Transplantation for Parkinson’s Disease: A Systematic Review
Keywords:
Neurology, Fecal Microbiota Transplantation, Parkinson’s disease, Cognition, Evidence-based medicineAbstract
Background: Fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) is a procedure that involves transferring fecal material from a healthy donor to a patient to restore intestinal balance. Gut dysbiosis in Parkinson’s disease (PD) worsens motor and gastrointestinal symptoms. Studies suggest that FMT may alleviate these symptoms by improving gut health and reducing neuroinflammation. Methods: This review followed Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) and Cochrane guidelines. A literature search was performed on Cochrane Library, PubMed, and Scopus databases. Articles were screened for inclusion using the Rayyan® platform, based on predefined eligibility criteria, with any conflicts resolved by consensus. Results: Out of 760 records, four studies met the inclusion criteria. FMT demonstrated variable outcomes, with symptom improvement ranging from 45% to 70% for gastrointestinal disturbances and motor function. Adverse events were minimal, primarily involving mild gastrointestinal discomfort. FMT was effective in restoring gut microbiome balance and reducing neuroinflammation. However, heterogeneity in patient populations, FMT protocols, and study designs complicated the standardization of outcomes. Conclusion: FMT offers a promising therapeutic approach for PD, particularly in improving gastrointestinal and motor symptoms. The variability in patient populations, FMT protocols, and study designs highlights the need for standardized methodologies and more extensive clinical trials. Optimizing FMT administration and exploring its role as an adjunctive treatment alongside conventional therapies could enhance patient outcomes and provide an innovative strategy for managing PD.
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