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Microbial Therapeutics Designed for Infant Health
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2017-10-26
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peer-reviewed
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Watkins C, Stanton C, Ryan CA and Ross RP (2017) Microbial Therapeutics Designed for Infant Health. Front. Nutr. 4:48. doi: 10.3389/fnut.2017.00048
Abstract
Acknowledgment of the gut microbiome as a vital asset to health has led to multiple
studies attempting to elucidate its mechanisms of action. During the first year of life,
many factors can cause fluctuation in the developing gut microbiome. Host genetics,
maternal health status, mode of delivery, gestational age, feeding regime, and perinatal
antibiotic usage, are known factors which can influence the development of the infant
gut microbiome. Thus, the microbiome of vaginally born, exclusively breastfed infants
at term, with no previous exposure to antibiotics, either directly or indirectly from the
mother, is to be considered the “gold standard.” Moreover, the use of prebiotics as an
aid for the development of a healthy gut microbiome is equally as important in maintaining gut homeostasis. Breastmilk, a natural prebiotic source, provides optimal active
ingredients for the growth of beneficial microbial species. However, early life disorders
such as necrotising enterocolitis, childhood obesity, and even autism have been associated with an altered/disturbed gut microbiome. Subsequently, microbial therapies have
been introduced, in addition to suitable prebiotic ingredients, which when administered,
may aid in the prevention of a microbial disturbance in the gastrointestinal tract. The aim
of this mini-review is to highlight the beneficial effects of different probiotic and prebiotic
treatments in early life, with particular emphasis on the different conditions which negatively impact microbial colonisation at birth.