Gut Microbiome Dysbiosis and its Impact on Parkinson's Disease

Presenter: Kevin Li, Biochemistry, Global Public Health Scholars

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For my practicum, I worked with the University of Maryland’s Department of Biostatistics and Epidemiology through the UM ADAPT Program during the summer and fall of 2024. My project explored the connection between gut health and Parkinson’s Disease by examining how imbalances in gut bacteria may contribute to disease development. I worked with microbiome datasets from different study populations, using sequencing data to compare the types and levels of bacteria found in individuals with Parkinson’s Disease and those without. I performed statistical analyses to measure microbial diversity and identify bacterial groups that were more or less common in affected individuals. This involved learning how to use R, a statistical programming language, to organize data, run tests, and interpret trends. I also conducted a literature review to understand the current scientific knowledge on the gut-brain connection and how it relates to neurodegenerative disease. Through this experience, I developed important research skills, including data analysis, scientific writing, and problem-solving. I also learned how factors like age, diet, and health status can influence disease risk, showing me how social and biological factors interact in public health. This project showed me the important role of research in shaping strategies to detect and manage chronic conditions. It gave me the opportunity to apply classroom knowledge in a real-world setting and helped me understand how public health relies on science to create effective solutions. Looking ahead, this research has the potential to identify microbial biomarkers that could support early detection and prevention efforts in Parkinson’s Disease. Overall, this practicum strengthened my interest in data-driven research that can improve long-term health outcomes across diverse communities.