Temporal development of the infant oral microbiome

Area of Science:

• Microbiology
• Human Health
• Developmental Biology

Background:

• The human oral microbiome's role extends beyond the mouth, impacting overall health.
• Early life colonization and community development are crucial for oral microbiome formation.
• Prenatal and early childhood factors significantly shape the oral microbiome's long-term trajectory.

Approach:

• This review examines the temporal development of the infant oral microbiome.
• It analyzes the impact of prenatal and postnatal influences on microbial community structure.
• The roles of specific early-colonizing bacteria are investigated.

Key Points:

• Neonate diet and environmental factors, particularly breastfeeding, are major drivers of infant oral microbiome development.
• Specific colonization events and ordered bacterial succession shape the oral microbiome.
• Early life influences can have lasting effects on oral and potentially systemic health.

Conclusions:

• The infant oral microbiome is dynamically established by host and environmental factors.
• Understanding early bacterial colonization is key to deciphering oral microbiome's role in health and disease.
• Further research is essential to elucidate the functions of early colonizers and their long-term health implications.