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[Changes in gut microbiota and serum D-lactate level and correlation analysis in children with recurrent pneumonia]

Shao Peng1, Tian-Hua DU, Man Zhang

  • 1Department of Pediatrics, First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450000, China. pengshaodh630@126.com.

Zhongguo Dang Dai Er Ke Za Zhi = Chinese Journal of Contemporary Pediatrics
|February 24, 2016
PubMed

Insights

Children with recurrent pneumonia exhibit altered gut microbiota, with lower Bifidobacterium and higher Escherichia coli. This imbalance correlates with elevated serum D-lactate, suggesting intestinal barrier dysfunction.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Pulmonology
  • Microbiome Research
  • Gastroenterology

Background:

  • Recurrent pneumonia in children poses a significant health challenge.
  • Gut microbiota dysbiosis is increasingly linked to various pediatric diseases.
  • Intestinal barrier integrity is crucial for maintaining systemic health.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate gut microbiota composition and serum D-lactate levels in children with recurrent pneumonia.
  • To determine the correlation between gut microbiota alterations and elevated D-lactate in this population.
  • To explore the implications for intestinal barrier function in recurrent pneumonia.

Main Methods:

  • Collected stool and blood samples from children with recurrent pneumonia, acute pneumonia, and a control surgery group.
  • Utilized 16S rRNA fluorescent quantitative polymerase chain reaction (FQ-PCR) to quantify Bifidobacterium and Escherichia coli.
  • Calculated the Bifidobacterium/Escherichia coli (B/E) ratio and measured serum D-lactate levels, followed by correlation analysis.

Main Results:

  • Children with recurrent pneumonia showed significantly lower Bifidobacterium counts and B/E ratios compared to controls.
  • Elevated Escherichia coli counts were observed in the recurrent group versus the surgery group.
  • Serum D-lactate levels were significantly higher in children with recurrent pneumonia, negatively correlating with the B/E ratio.

Conclusions:

  • Recurrent pneumonia in children is associated with significant gut dysbiosis, characterized by reduced beneficial bacteria and increased potentially harmful bacteria.
  • Increased serum D-lactate levels in these children suggest compromised intestinal barrier function.
  • These findings indicate potential biological and mechanical barrier damage in the intestinal mucosa of children with recurrent pneumonia.
Abstract

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