Question

Name the three theories about the detrimental role of inflammation in \(\mathbf{P D}\) and explain their respective basis.

Short answer

ad to the production of harmful substances and immune cells that can access the brain and damage dopaminergic neurons, thus promoting the development of PD symptoms. This theory not only highlights the involvement of the brain's immune response, but also underscores the importance of peripheral immune processes and gut-brain crosstalk in the development of Parkinson's Disease. The systemic inflammation theory suggests that targeting and reducing systemic inflammation could potentially have a positive impact on delaying or preventing the onset of PD.

Step-by-step solution

1. Chronic inflammation theory

Chronic inflammation theory suggests that long-term inflammation within the brain leads to the death of dopaminergic neurons, which causes the development of Parkinson's Disease symptoms. This theory mainly focuses on the key role of microglia cells, which become activated in response to neuronal injury and release pro-inflammatory cytokines and reactive oxygen species. Over time, this chronic inflammation can contribute significantly to the degradation of the nigrostriatal pathway, where these dopaminergic neurons reside, leading to the progression of PD.

2. Infection-related inflammation theory

Infection-related inflammation theory postulates that certain infections, such as viral or bacterial infections, can trigger an inflammatory response in the brain and may also directly or indirectly damage dopaminergic neurons, resulting in PD symptoms. According to this theory, the mechanism of action involves the activation of microglial cells and the production of inflammatory cytokine release, similar to the chronic inflammation theory. However, the main difference is that this theory emphasizes the role of infection as an initiating factor, which means that eliminating or controlling the infection could potentially prevent or slow down the development of PD.

3. Systemic inflammation theory

The systemic inflammation theory suggests that inflammation outside the brain, particularly gut inflammation, can contribute to the progression of Parkinson's Disease. Under this theory, it is believed that inflammation in the gut can le