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The microbiome and probiotics in childhood
1Department of Urology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford University, Stanford, California.
Seminars in Reproductive Medicine
|January 7, 2014
Summary
The infant microbiome develops dynamically, with beneficial microbes offering health advantages. Probiotics can modulate this microbiome to prevent childhood genitourinary, enteric, and allergic disorders.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Pediatrics
- Immunology
Background:
- Early life microbial colonization is crucial for infant development.
- The human microbiome is a dynamic ecosystem, even in healthy children.
- Beneficial microbes (probiotics) can positively influence host health.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the highest level evidence on childhood microbiome evolution.
- To examine probiotic manipulation of the microbiome for specific disorders.
- To assess probiotics as alternatives/adjuvants to antibiotics and vaccines.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of high-level evidence.
- Analysis of microbiome development in children.
- Evaluation of probiotic efficacy in genitourinary, enteric, allergic, and atopic conditions.
Main Results:
- Childhood microbiome development is a dynamic process.
- Probiotics show promise in managing pediatric genitourinary, enteric, and allergic disorders.
- Probiotic interventions may reduce reliance on antibiotics and vaccines.
Conclusions:
- Probiotics represent a promising strategy for pediatric health and disease prevention.
- Modulating the infant microbiome can mitigate risks associated with traditional treatments.
- Further research supports probiotics as adjunctive therapies in pediatrics.
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