Could Parkinson's disease be linked to certain autoimmune diseases?

A few years ago, researchers at Columbia University found evidence that a protein in the brain cells of people with Parkinson's disease can activate the T cells involved in autoimmune attacks. While the presence of T-cell activating proteins doesn't necessarily mean Parkinson's is autoimmune, a recent meta-study has revealed an increased risk for Parkinson's disease among patients with certain autoimmune diseases.

Parkinson’s is characterized by the progressive loss of nerve cells that affect the brain and impact movement. Recently, scientists examined data from 46 observational studies around the world and found that patients with bullous pemphigoid, inflammatory bowel disease, Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis, Sjogren’s disease, and Grave's disease are more likely to also have Parkinson's. Autoimmune diseases involving gastrointestinal inflammation had around 30% higher risk of being associated with Parkinson's, while Sjogren's had a 61% higher risk, Grave's 45% higher risk, and bullous pemphigoid 167% higher risk than the control population.

However, no such increased risk was found in patients with lupus, multiple sclerosis, rheumatoid arthritis, or Celiac disease. Although this study suggests that there is a relationship between Parkinson’s and certain autoimmune diseases, the researchers emphasized that it does not necessarily mean one causes the other. The study indicated that more accurate evidence of a relationship would require "following up long enough to include a large sample size of the study population."

This is why participation in research is important. To better understand the origins of autoimmune diseases and their connections to other comorbidities, large amounts of health-related data are necessary. Participants must give consent for their data to be used for research. To support research, the Autoimmune Registry connects eligible participants to clinical trials. Please support our efforts by joining the registry or sharing our information with others who have autoimmune conditions. Donations are also greatly appreciated!

To look at the current clinical trials we are supporting, click here.