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Updated: May 21, 2026
07:15
An In Vitro Batch-culture Model to Estimate the Effects of Interventional Regimens on Human Fecal Microbiota
Published on: July 31, 2019
The human gut microbiota and undernutrition
Jeffrey I Gordon1, Kathryn G Dewey, David A Mills
1Center for Genome Sciences and Systems Biology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63108, USA. jgordon@wustl.edu
Science Translational Medicine
|June 8, 2012
Summary
Childhood malnutrition is a global issue influenced by more than just food availability. Research suggests the gut microbiota plays a key role in undernutrition, impacting infant and child health.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Pediatrics
- Nutrition Science
Background:
- Childhood malnutrition is a significant global health challenge.
- Factors beyond food insecurity, such as the gut microbiota, are implicated in its development.
- Understanding the maternal-infant dyad's microbial interactions is crucial.
Purpose of the Study:
- To highlight the potential role of the human gut microbiota in childhood malnutrition.
- To advocate for applying gut microbiota research tools to understand nutritional needs and undernutrition.
- To explore the microbiota's role in the pathogenesis and treatment of undernutrition.
Main Methods:
- This perspective synthesizes current knowledge on gut microbiota and malnutrition.
- It calls for interdisciplinary approaches integrating microbial ecology, nutrition, and immunology.
- Focuses on the maternal-infant dyad and breast milk's influence on microbial development.
Main Results:
- The gut microbiota is increasingly recognized as a factor in childhood malnutrition.
- Interactions within the maternal-infant dyad are critical for establishing a healthy gut microbiome.
- Breast milk composition significantly influences infant microbiota and immune system development.
Conclusions:
- Applying gut microbiome research to pediatrics can advance our understanding of malnutrition.
- Targeting the gut microbiota may offer novel therapeutic strategies for undernutrition.
- Further research into the maternal-infant gut microbiome is essential for improving child nutrition globally.
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