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Updated: Oct 13, 2025
Therapeutic Evaluation of Fecal Microbiota Transplantation in an Interleukin 10-Deficient Mouse Model
Published on: April 6, 2022
Current and future applications of fecal microbiota transplantation for children
Chien-Chang Chen1, Cheng-Hsun Chiu2
1Division of Pediatric Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Pediatrics, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital at Linkou, Taoyuan, Taiwan; Molecular Infectious Disease Research Center, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital at Linkou, Taoyuan, Taiwan; College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, Taiwan.
Abstract:
Fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) is a new and adequate route to modify the microbial ecosystem in gastrointestinal tract of the hosts. Intestinal microbiota is highly associated with human health and disease. According to the reports of human clinical trials or case series, the application of FMT ranged from Clostridiodes difficile infection (CDI), inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), irritable bowel syndrome, refractory diarrhea, diabetes mellitus, metabolic syndrome, and even neurologic diseases, including Parkinson disease, and neuropsychiatric disorder (autism spectrum disorder, ASD). Although the current allowed indication of FMT is CDI in Taiwan, more application and development are expectable in the future. There is a relative rare data available for children in application of fecal microbiota transplantation. Thus, we review previous published research inspecting FMT in children, and address particular considerations when conducting FMT in pediatric patients.
Insights
Fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) shows promise for various conditions beyond C. difficile infection, particularly in children. This review examines existing research and unique considerations for pediatric FMT applications.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology and Hepatology
- Microbiology
- Pediatrics
Background:
- Intestinal microbiota plays a crucial role in human health and disease.
- Fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) is an emerging therapeutic approach to modulate the gut microbial ecosystem.
- Current approved indications for FMT vary globally, with Clostridiodes difficile infection (CDI) being a primary target.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review existing research on the application of FMT in pediatric populations.
- To highlight the potential and challenges of FMT in children for various gastrointestinal and non-gastrointestinal conditions.
- To address specific considerations unique to performing FMT in pediatric patients.
Main Methods:
- Systematic review of published literature on FMT in children.
- Analysis of clinical trials, case series, and observational studies involving pediatric FMT.
- Synthesis of data regarding efficacy, safety, and specific pediatric considerations.
Main Results:
- FMT has been explored for conditions including inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), irritable bowel syndrome, and refractory diarrhea in children.
- Emerging evidence suggests potential applications in metabolic and neurologic disorders, such as autism spectrum disorder (ASD), in pediatric populations.
- Data on FMT in children is relatively limited compared to adults, necessitating further research.
Conclusions:
- FMT holds significant therapeutic potential for a range of pediatric conditions beyond CDI.
- Further research and clinical trials are essential to establish safety and efficacy in children.
- Specialized considerations are required for the successful and safe implementation of FMT in pediatric patients.
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