[Research progress of the application of probiotics in preterm infants]

Area of Science:

• Neonatal medicine
• Microbiology
• Gastroenterology

Background:

• Preterm infants possess immature gastrointestinal systems, leading to abnormal gut microbiota and increased susceptibility to gastrointestinal disorders.
• Common gastrointestinal issues in preterm infants include necrotizing enterocolitis, late-onset sepsis, and feeding intolerance.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the role of probiotics in managing gastrointestinal health in preterm infants.
• To evaluate the potential benefits of probiotics in preventing specific gastrointestinal diseases in this population.

Main Methods:

• Review of current literature on probiotic use in preterm infants.
• Analysis of studies investigating probiotic effects on gut microbiota, barrier function, inflammation, and immunity.

Main Results:

• Probiotics demonstrate potential in regulating gut microbiota composition.
• Evidence suggests probiotics can enhance gastrointestinal barrier function and modulate inflammatory and immune responses.
• Current applications include prevention of necrotizing enterocolitis, late-onset sepsis, and feeding intolerance.

Conclusions:

• Probiotics offer a promising approach to improve gastrointestinal outcomes in preterm infants.
• However, the definitive safety and efficacy of probiotics for preterm infants remain subjects of ongoing debate and research.