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The developing intestinal microbiome and its relationship to health and disease in the neonate

R Murgas Torrazza1, J Neu

  • 1Division of Neonatology, Department of Pediatrics, University of Florida College of Medicine, Gainesville, FL, USA.

Journal of Perinatology : Official Journal of the California Perinatal Association
|March 31, 2011
PubMed

Insights

New technologies reveal the intestinal microbiome's role in health and disease. This review covers medical impacts like antibiotics, probiotics, and delivery methods on gut bacteria.

Area of Science:

  • Microbiology
  • Gastroenterology
  • Human Microbiome Research

Background:

  • The intestinal microbiota maintains a symbiotic relationship with the host.
  • Recent technological advancements, spurred by the Human Genome Project, have revolutionized the study of the intestinal microbiota.
  • New discoveries have led to initiatives like the Human Microbiome Roadmap.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review recent developments in understanding the intestinal microbiota.
  • To discuss the impact of medical interventions on the gut microbiome.

Main Methods:

  • Review of emerging technologies applied to microbiota evaluation.
  • Analysis of scientific literature on medical manipulations and their effects.

Main Results:

  • Emerging technologies provide deeper insights into the intestinal microbiota.
  • Medical interventions significantly influence the composition and function of the gut microbiome.
  • Factors like antibiotics, probiotics, prebiotics, and delivery mode (C-section vs. vaginal) alter the microbiota.

Conclusions:

  • Understanding the intestinal microbiota is crucial for human health and disease.
  • Medical practices can be modulated to optimize the gut microbiome.
  • Further research is needed to fully elucidate the complex interactions within the human microbiome.

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