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Bifidobacteria and the infant gut: an example of co-evolution and natural selection

Francesca Turroni1,2, Christian Milani1, Sabrina Duranti1

  • 1Laboratory of Probiogenomics, Department of Chemistry, Life Sciences and Environmental Sustainability, University of Parma, Parma, Italy.

Cellular and Molecular Life Sciences : CMLS
|October 7, 2017
PubMed

Insights

The infant gut microbiota begins developing at birth, influenced by factors like diet and delivery mode. Bifidobacteria are key beneficial bacteria in this early microbial community.

Area of Science:

  • Microbiology
  • Human Health
  • Infant Development

Background:

  • The gut microbiota plays a crucial role in human health throughout life.
  • Microbial community establishment in infants begins at birth.
  • Factors like diet, antibiotics, and delivery mode significantly shape infant gut microbial composition.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To discuss the establishment of the infant gut microbiota.
  • To highlight the contribution of Bifidobacterium species to the early life microbial consortium.

Main Methods:

  • Review of existing literature on infant gut microbiota.
  • Analysis of factors influencing microbial colonization.
  • Discussion of Bifidobacterium's role and characteristics.

Main Results:

  • The infant gut microbiota is established early in life.
  • Bifidobacterium species are abundant and confer beneficial effects.
  • Vertical transmission and saccharolytic activity are key to Bifidobacterium persistence.

Conclusions:

  • Bifidobacteria are important beneficial members of the infant gut microbiota.
  • Understanding early microbial colonization is vital for infant health.
  • Factors influencing microbial composition require further investigation.

Keywords:
BifidobacteriaGenomicsMetagenomicsMicrobiomeMicrobiota

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