(P25-039-24) Extended Supplementation With B. Lactis MH-022 Mitigates Motor Impairments in 6-OHDA-Induced Parkinson's Disease Rats Through Gut Microbiota Modulation

Objectives: Parkinson's disease (PD) is a growing concern due to aging, with motor and non-motor symptoms linked to dopamine neuron loss. While its exact cause is unclear, oxidative stress, inflammation, mitochondrial dysfunction, and gut microbiota imbalances play roles. Probiotics, especially Bifidobacterium strains like B. lactis MH-022, show promise in PD therapy by modulating gut microbiota and reducing inflammation. This study investigates the impact of prolonged B. lactis MH-022 supplementation in a 6-OHDA-induced rat model of PD.

Methods: Utilizing twenty-four male Sprague-Dawley rats, aged eight weeks, the study simulated PD via unilateral 6-hydroxydopamine (6-OHDA) lesions. These animals were divided into control and PD groups, with the latter further split into untreated and B. lactis MH-022-treated subgroups. Over a 10-week period, the treated subgroup received the probiotic. Assessments encompassing behavioral tests, immunohistochemical analyses, and molecular studies were performed to evaluate motor functions, neuronal integrity, and molecular changes resulting from the probiotic intervention.

Results: Results reveal significant benefits, particularly in motor function, dopaminergic neuron preservation, and gait enhancement. B. lactis MH-022 also improves antioxidant activity, reduces brain inflammation, and alters gut microbiota positively, suggesting potential in alleviating PD's neurodegenerative effects.

Conclusions: In summary, B. lactis MH-022 showcases considerable promise for improving motor function, neuronal preservation, and exerting anti-inflammatory effects within a PD rat model. Its positive modulation of gut microbiota further emphasizes its therapeutic potential for Parkinson's disease.

Funding Sources: Bioflag Biotech Co., Ltd., Tainan, Taiwan, under the Taipei Medical University—University and Industry Collaboration Project (grant no. A- 109-065). Ministry of Science and Technology (MOST), Taiwan, grant number MOST109-2410-H-038-016-MY3 and MOST109-2320-B-038-058-MY3.