Effect of <i>BF</i>839 + earthworm protein supplement on motor and some non-motor symptoms of Parkinson's disease: a randomized clinical trial.

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IntroductionSome studies have found that probiotics have the potential to treat PD, and earthworm protein is a traditional Chinese medicine used for the treatment of PD. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the safety and efficacy of Bacteroides fragilis 839 (BF839) + earthworm protein supplement as an adjunctive therapy for PD and to observe changes in the gut microbiota.MethodsForty-six patients with PD were recruited for a 12-week 1:1 randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial to evaluate changes in motor and some non-motor symptom scores and detect metagenomic changes in the gut microbiota.ResultsFrom baseline to 12 weeks, compared with placebo, the trial group showed significant reductions in the United Parkinson's Disease Rate Scale (UPDRS) total score (-7.74 ± 5.92 vs. -1.83 ± 4.14, p p = 0.026), UPDRS part II (-2.50 ± 2.24 vs. -0.22 ± 1.98, p = 0.001), UPDRS part III (-3.43 ± 3.42 vs. -1.33 ± 2.65, p = 0.024), and UPDRS part IV (-1.13 ± 1.19 vs. -0.15 ± 0.57, p = 0.001). Significant reductions in the Hamilton Depression Scale-24 score (-3.91 ± 3.99 vs. +1.15 ± 3.42, p p p Enterococcus faecium and a decrease in Klebsiella.ConclusionThis study is the first to report that probiotics plus earthworm protein can remarkably improve the motor and some non-motor symptoms of PD without serious adverse effects. However, further clinical trials and exploration of the underlying mechanisms are required.Clinical trial registrationClinical trial registry http://www.chictr.org.cn/, Identification No: ChiCTR2000035122.

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