News Health & Medicine

The appendix is implicated in Parkinson’s disease

Having an appendectomy lowered the risk of developing the neurodegenerative disease

globs of alpha-synuclein protein

CLUMPS FOUND HERE  Globs of alpha-synuclein protein (red) found in appendix tissue from healthy individuals add to evidence that the gut plays a role in the development of Parkinson’s disease.

V. Labrie/Van Andel Research Institute

By Aimee Cunningham

- More than 2 years ago

The appendix, a once-dismissed organ now known to play a role in the immune system, may contribute to a person’s chances of developing Parkinson’s disease.