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Probiotic intervention in neonates--will permanent colonization ensue?

Miguel Gueimonde1, Marko Kalliomäki, Erika Isolauri

  • 1Functional Foods Forum and Department of Biochemistry and Food Chemistry, University of Turku, Turku, Finland. miguel.gueimonde@utu.fi

Journal of Pediatric Gastroenterology and Nutrition
|May 19, 2006
PubMed

Insights

Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG supplementation in infants showed transient gut colonization. Early presence of this probiotic was linked to a lower risk of developing atopic eczema later in life.

Area of Science:

  • Microbiology
  • Pediatric Health
  • Immunology

Background:

  • Probiotics, such as Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG (LGG), are increasingly studied for their potential health benefits in infants.
  • Early life gut microbiota colonization plays a crucial role in immune system development and susceptibility to allergic diseases.
  • Understanding the persistence and impact of specific probiotic strains in the infant gut is essential.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the transient colonization of Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG in infant feces.
  • To determine the correlation between LGG presence and the later development of atopic eczema.

Main Methods:

  • A randomized, placebo-controlled trial involving 128 infants.
  • Fecal samples were collected at 6 and 12 months of age to monitor LGG presence.
  • Infants received either LGG or placebo for the first 6 months of life.

Main Results:

  • No permanent establishment of Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG was detected in the infant gut.
  • Transient colonization of LGG was observed at 6 months of age.
  • A significant correlation was found between the presence of LGG at 6 months and a reduced prevalence of atopic eczema later in life.

Conclusions:

  • Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG can transiently colonize the infant gut.
  • Early transient colonization by LGG may have a protective effect against the development of atopic eczema.
  • Further research is warranted to elucidate the mechanisms behind this protective effect.

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