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A comparative study of bifidobacteria in human babies and adults

Shadi Khonsari1, Mayuran Suganthy1, Beata Burczynska1

  • 1School of Science and Technology, Middlesex University, Town Hall The Burroughs, Hendon, London NW4 4BT, UK.

Bioscience of Microbiota, Food and Health
|May 21, 2016
PubMed

Insights

Bifidobacteria levels are significantly higher in babies compared to adults. Factors like diet, age, and BMI influence bifidobacteria in adults, while diet and age are key in babies.

Area of Science:

  • Microbiology
  • Human Gut Microbiome
  • Pediatric Health

Background:

  • Gut microbiota composition differs significantly between infants and adults.
  • Bifidobacteria are a key genus in the infant gut microbiome.
  • Understanding factors influencing Bifidobacteria levels is crucial for gut health.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To compare Bifidobacteria levels in babies and adults.
  • To investigate the impact of lifestyle factors on Bifidobacteria abundance.
  • To identify age-specific influences on intestinal Bifidobacteria.

Main Methods:

  • Comparative analysis of Bifidobacteria levels.
  • Study included 10 human infants (<2 years) and 10 adults (>40 years).
  • Assessment of lifestyle factors including diet and Body Mass Index (BMI).

Main Results:

  • Significantly higher levels of Bifidobacteria were observed in babies compared to adults.
  • In adults, age, diet, and BMI collectively influenced Bifidobacteria levels.
  • In infants, diet and age were identified as potential key influencers of Bifidobacteria.

Conclusions:

  • Infant gut microbiota, particularly Bifidobacteria, differs markedly from adults.
  • Lifestyle factors play a significant role in modulating adult gut Bifidobacteria.
  • Age and diet are critical determinants of Bifidobacteria levels in both infants and adults.

Keywords:
agebifidobacteriagut microbiota

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