Investigating the link between Parkinson’s Disease (PD) and livestock farming

A mortality study found increased proportional mortality from PD in livestock farmers, decreased in arable. Agrochemicals used in these sectors are different, but zoonotic transmission of infection is a more compelling explanation, since inflammation (microglial activation) accompanies loss of presynaptic dopamine transporter in early PD and there are pointers to peripheral drivers. Peptic ulcer is prodromal in PD. Our randomized placebo-controlled trial, showing that eradicating Helicobacter pylori improves the hypokinesia of PD, provides cause-effect evidence (level 1b). Our pilot studies suggest increased mortality (x 8) in PD with H. suis infection (as defined by a ureA-based qPCR assay on gastric biopsy) and the relative frequency of H. suis cf pylori was 10 times greater in PD than gastroenterology patients. Subsequently, we have found H. suis in 60 % of UK pig stomachs on microscopy, and detected its DNA in stool (whole genome sequencing). We, therefore, aim to explore the link between PD and livestock, developing a state-of-the-art assay for the prime target, Non H. pylori Helicobacters (NHPH). Recognising pre-presentation states of PD and attenuated or partial manifestations (by quantification of the cardinal facets), not just that ‘tip of the iceberg’ (diagnosed PD), should best differentiate an ‘at risk’ occupational group from controls. We seek PhD candidates for studentship involving molecular screening methods for NHPH with APHA (under supervision of Dr Richard Ellis)/KCL and engaging in clinical phenotype screening KCL (Prof David Taylor, Drs John & Sylvia Dobbs)/RVC (Dr Mandy Nevel).

For full details on how to apply, please visit http://www.kcl.ac.uk/health/study/studentships/div-studentships/ips/taylor.aspx