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Impact of prematurity and nutrition on the developing gut microbiome and preterm infant growth

Alex Grier1, Xing Qiu2, Sanjukta Bandyopadhyay2

  • 1Genomics Research Center, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, Rochester, NY, USA.

Microbiome
|December 13, 2017
PubMed

Insights

Understanding the neonatal gut microbiome is key for preterm infant growth. Nutrition tailored to specific gut microbiota phases can significantly improve growth outcomes in these vulnerable infants.

Area of Science:

  • Neonatal microbiome research
  • Pediatric nutrition
  • Infant growth and development

Background:

  • Factors influencing the neonatal gut microbiome are crucial for preterm infant health.
  • This study investigates the impact of nutrition and common practices on gut microbiota and growth in preterm infants.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To examine the influence of nutrition and common practices on the gut microbiota and growth in preterm infants.
  • To identify factors that can guide clinical practices for healthy preterm infant development.

Main Methods:

  • Weekly gut microbiota samples were collected from preterm infants (postmenstrual age 24-46 weeks).
  • Two models were developed: a categorical model with three microbiota phases (P1, P2, P3) and a two-period model (early/late PMA).
  • A phase-based framework was primarily used to analyze associations between microbiota, nutrition, and growth.

Main Results:

  • Phase transitions in the gut microbiota were observed, correlating with stool consistency changes.
  • The rate of progression through microbiota phases was positively associated with gestational age at birth.
  • Delayed transition to the P3 microbiota phase was linked to growth failure, with distinct bacterial metabolic functions identified across phases.

Conclusions:

  • The impact of nutrition on infant growth is dependent on the specific gut microbiota phase.
  • Phase-specific bacterial metabolic functions were identified.
  • Tailoring nutrient intake to microbiota phase holds potential for improving growth outcomes in preterm infants.
Abstract

Keywords:
Gut microbiotaInfant growthMeconiumNutritionPhase transitionPreterm infants

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