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Related Experiment Video

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Author Spotlight: Enhancing Understanding and Treatment Strategies with the NEC-on-a-Chip Model

Author Spotlight: Enhancing Understanding and Treatment Strategies with the NEC-on-a-Chip Model

Published on: July 28, 2023

Intestinal microbiota and its relationship with necrotizing enterocolitis.

Ravi Mangal Patel¹, Patricia W Denning¹

¹1] Department of Pediatrics, Division of Neonatal-Perinatal Medicine, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia [2] Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, Atlanta, Georgia.

Pediatric Research

|May 21, 2015

Summary

Necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) in preterm infants is linked to abnormal gut bacteria. Restoring a healthy gut microbiome with probiotics may prevent NEC by protecting the infant gut from inflammation and injury.

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Area of Science:

Neonatal Medicine
Microbiology
Gastroenterology

Background:

Necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) is a significant cause of illness and death in premature infants.
The development of a healthy gut microbiome after birth is crucial for neonatal health.
Disrupted or delayed microbial colonization is a key risk factor for NEC development.

Purpose of the Study:

To review the relationship between intestinal microbiota and NEC in preterm infants.
To explore how microbial colonization impacts NEC pathogenesis.
To discuss the potential of microbiome-targeted therapies for NEC prevention.

Main Methods:

Literature review of studies on intestinal microbiota and NEC in preterm infants.
Analysis of the role of microbial colonization in NEC pathogenesis.
Evaluation of current and emerging therapeutic strategies, including probiotics.

Main Results:

A healthy gut microbiota may protect the immature gut from inflammation and injury.
An imbalance or deficiency in gut bacteria is implicated in NEC development.
Probiotic therapy shows promise in restoring a protective microbial balance.

Conclusions:

The intestinal microbiota plays a critical role in the pathogenesis and prevention of NEC.
Modulating the gut microbiome is a promising therapeutic avenue for NEC in preterm infants.
Further research into microbiome interventions is warranted to improve outcomes for premature neonates.