The Development of the Human Microbiome: Why Moms Matter

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Derrick M Chu1, Gregory C Valentine1, Maxim D Seferovic1

  • 1Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Division of Maternal-Fetal Medicine 1 Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX 77030, USA.

Gastroenterology Clinics of North America
|August 7, 2019
PubMed

Insights

Understanding the fetal and neonatal microbiome is crucial for health. This study explores early-life microbial exposures, including in utero, and their impact on microbiome development and preterm birth risk.

Area of Science:

  • Microbiology
  • Human Microbiome
  • Neonatal Development

Background:

  • The human body hosts trillions of bacteria, vital for health but also capable of causing disease.
  • Understanding normal microbiome acquisition is essential before linking it to disease risk.
  • Early-life microbial exposures significantly influence the developing microbiome.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To explore evidence of in utero microbial exposures.
  • To investigate the significance of these exposures for fetal and neonatal microbiome development.
  • To examine the relationship between microbiome development and factors like preterm birth, feeding, delivery mode, and maternal diet.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of studies on in utero microbial exposures.
  • Analysis of factors influencing fetal and neonatal microbiome development.
  • Exploration of correlations between microbiome and health outcomes.

Main Results:

  • Evidence suggests potential in utero microbial colonization.
  • Microbiome development is influenced by delivery mode, feeding practices, and maternal diet.
  • Disruptions in early microbiome development are linked to preterm birth.

Conclusions:

  • In utero microbial exposure may play a role in establishing the neonatal microbiome.
  • Factors like delivery mode, feeding, and maternal diet are critical modulators of infant microbiome development.
  • Further research is needed to fully elucidate the impact of early microbial exposures on long-term health and disease susceptibility.
Keywords:
DevelopmentMicrobiomeMode of delivery

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