Parkinson’s Disease and the Interaction of Photobiomodulation, the Microbiome, and Antibiotics: A Case Series

Authors: Dr. Brian Bicknell, Anita Saltmarche, Orla Hares, Prof. Geoffrey Herkes, Dr. Ann Liebert
Published in: Medical Research Archives, Volume 12, Issue 1, January 31, 2024
DOI: 10.18103/mra.v12i1.4929
Access Link: Medical Research Archives

Key Findings & Conditions PBM May Benefit

This study examines the interaction between Photobiomodulation (PBM), the gut microbiome, and Parkinson’s Disease (PD) through a case series of four patients with PD. PBM was applied three times per week using infrared laser treatment to the abdomen and neck, with or without LED treatment to the head.

The study suggests PBM may improve symptoms of Parkinson’s disease, particularly through its influence on the microbiome-gut-brain-axis (MGBA). Key findings include:

• Motor improvements, including better balance, gait, and reduced tremors.

• Reduction in non-motor symptoms, such as gastrointestinal disturbances, constipation, and bloating.

• Positive microbiome changes, increasing beneficial bacteria (Faecalibacterium, Roseburia, Bacteroides, and Parabacteroides) and reducing harmful bacteria (Blautia, Streptococcus, and Dorea).

• Negative impact of antibiotics, as seen in two cases where antibiotics reversed the benefits of PBM and worsened motor and non-motor symptoms.

PBMT Effects on the Microbiome and Parkinson’s Disease

PBM was applied remotely to the abdomen and neck, showing systemic effects that likely influenced brain function via the gut microbiome. Major findings include:

• Changes in gut bacterial composition positively correlated with symptom improvement.

• Restoration of short-chain fatty acid-producing bacteria, which are typically deficient in PD patients.

• Improved gastric motility and reduced inflammation, indicating a broader systemic impact.

• Deterioration following antibiotic use, with microbiome dysbiosis linked to worsening PD symptoms.

Specific PBMT Protocols Mentioned

PBM was administered at the following parameters:

• Wavelengths:

• 904 nm superpulsed laser (abdomen and neck)

• 810 nm LED (transcranial and intranasal, in some cases)

• Treatment Schedule:

• 3x per week for 4 weeks, then 2x per week for 4 weeks, then 1x per week for 4 weeks.

• Some participants continued PBM treatment long-term (3+ years).

Other Conditions PBMT May Benefit (as listed in the article)

The study references PBM’s potential role in treating:

1. Neurodegenerative Disorders

• Parkinson’s Disease (PD)

• Alzheimer’s Disease (AD)

• Stroke Recovery

2. Inflammatory and Autoimmune Conditions

• Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)

• Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)

3. Chronic Pain and Musculoskeletal Disorders

• Arthritis

• Postural instability

• Neuropathic pain

4. Microbiome-Related Diseases

• Gut dysbiosis linked to neurodegeneration

• Systemic inflammation disorders

Conclusion

This case series provides preliminary evidence that PBM may improve Parkinson’s disease symptoms by altering the gut microbiome and reducing neuroinflammation. Patients showed improvements in motor function, gastrointestinal health, and microbiome diversity. However, antibiotics negatively impacted PBM’s benefits, highlighting the importance of considering gut health in PD management.

The findings support PBM as a promising non-invasive therapy for neurodegenerative diseases, particularly Parkinson’s, via its effects on the microbiome-gut-brain-axis. Future research should focus on large-scale clinical trials to confirm these results.