Probiotics and growth in preterm infants: A randomized controlled trial, PREMAPRO study

Area of Science:

• Neonatal research
• Microbiome studies
• Pediatric nutrition

Background:

• Emerging evidence suggests gut microflora influences metabolic functions.
• Preterm infants often experience growth challenges and altered gut microbiota.
• Investigating the impact of probiotics on preterm infant development is crucial.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the effect of different probiotic supplements on postnatal growth in preterm infants.
• To assess the safety and efficacy of probiotic administration in this vulnerable population.
• To analyze body composition changes up to corrected gestational age.

Main Methods:

• A prospective, randomized, double-blind, controlled trial involving 199 preterm infants.
• Infants received placebo or Bifidobacterium lactis and/or Bifidobacterium longum supplements for 4-6 weeks.
• Postnatal growth, body composition (DXA scan), and sepsis incidence were monitored.

Main Results:

• No significant differences in mean body weight, length, or head circumference were observed between probiotic and placebo groups at the end of supplementation.
• Incidence rates of necrotizing enterocolitis and late-onset sepsis were comparable across groups.
• Anthropometric measurements and body composition analysis at corrected gestational age of 41 weeks showed no group differences.

Conclusions:

• Bifidobacterium supplementation did not enhance postnatal growth in preterm infants compared to placebo.
• Probiotic administration was well-tolerated and demonstrated a safe profile in the studied preterm infants.
• Further research may explore specific probiotic strains or different administration protocols for preterm infants.