The laboratory of Inga Peter, PhD, Vice Chair of the Mount Sinai Department of Genetics and Genomic Sciences, has uncovered a surprising link between inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and Parkinson’s disease. In a large cohort study, Dr. Peter's team identified variants in the LRRK2 gene associated with both conditions. Building on these findings, her research has shown that patients with IBD have an increased risk of developing Parkinson’s. Dr. Peter’s lab is now investigating how gut inflammation may contribute to the development of Parkinson’s and is working to repurpose a Parkinson’s drug, an LRRK2 inhibitor, as a potential treatment for IBD. This approach could not only offer new therapeutic options for IBD but may also reduce the risk of Parkinson’s in IBD patients.