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The Infant Microbiome: Implications for Infant Health and Neurocognitive Development

Irene Yang1, Elizabeth J Corwin, Patricia A Brennan

  • 1Irene Yang, PhD, RN, is Postdoctoral Fellow, Nell Hodgson Woodruff School of Nursing, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia. Elizabeth J. Corwin, PhD, RN, FAAN, is Associate Dean and Professor, Nell Hodgson Woodruff School of Nursing, Atlanta, Georgia. Patricia A. Brennan, PhD, is Professor, Department of Psychology, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia. Sheila Jordan, RN, MPH, is Graduate Student; Jordan R. Murphy, BS, is Graduate Student; and Anne Dunlop, MD, MPH, is Associate Professor, Nell Hodgson Woodruff School of Nursing, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia.

Nursing Research
|December 15, 2015
PubMed

Insights

The infant gut microbiome plays a crucial role in development and health. Factors like birth mode and feeding impact its composition, influencing neurocognitive outcomes and long-term health.

Area of Science:

  • Microbiome research
  • Developmental biology
  • Neuroscience

Background:

  • The gut microbiome is vital from birth, aiding digestion, immune development, and neurotransmitter production.
  • These microbes significantly influence infant behavior and cognitive function.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the microbiome and its connection to the brain (microbiome-gut-brain axis).
  • To examine factors influencing infant gut microbiome composition: delivery mode, antibiotic use, and feeding.
  • To identify research priorities and clinical implications for infant health and neurodevelopment.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of existing studies on infant microbiome.
  • Analysis of factors affecting microbial colonization.
  • Synthesis of research findings on neurocognitive development and health outcomes.

Main Results:

  • Microbiome composition varies based on delivery method (vaginal vs. surgical) and antibiotic exposure.
  • Infant feeding patterns significantly shape the gut microbial community.
  • Specific microbial colonization patterns are linked to physical and neurocognitive development.

Conclusions:

  • The gut microbiome profoundly impacts immunological, endocrine, and neural pathways crucial for infant development.
  • Early-life microbial colonization patterns have long-term implications for health and disease risk.
  • Understanding these influences is essential for optimizing newborn care and parental guidance.
Abstract

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