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The early settlers: intestinal microbiology in early life

Petra A M J Scholtens1, Raish Oozeer, Rocio Martin

  • 1Danone Research, Centre for Specialised Nutrition, 6700 CA, Wageningen, Netherlands. petra.scholtens@danone.com

Annual Review of Food Science and Technology
|January 10, 2012
PubMed

Insights

The early development of the gut microbiota in newborns is crucial for long-term health. This review explores various factors influencing the establishment of the intestinal microbial ecosystem in early life.

Area of Science:

  • Microbiology
  • Human Physiology
  • Developmental Biology

Background:

  • The human intestinal microbiota is essential for normal physiology.
  • Disruptions in gut microbiology are linked to numerous health and disease issues.
  • Newborns are initially sterile, requiring microbial colonization from birth.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To provide a comprehensive overview of factors influencing intestinal microbiology in early life.
  • To highlight the importance of early microbial colonization for host health.
  • To understand the dynamics and determinants of infant gut microbiota development.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of existing research on infant gut microbiota.
  • Synthesis of current knowledge on factors affecting microbial colonization.
  • Analysis of host and environmental influences on early microbial ecosystems.

Main Results:

  • The first colonizers significantly shape the developing gut ecosystem.
  • Host characteristics and diet are key determinants of microbial development.
  • Other contributing factors can also profoundly impact early microbial composition.

Conclusions:

  • Understanding the factors that shape the infant gut microbiota is critical for promoting health.
  • Early life microbial development influences immune, metabolic, and neurological systems.
  • Further research into these determinants can inform interventions for gut health.

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