Altered Gut Microbiome and Fecal Immune Phenotype in Early Preterm Infants With Leaky Gut

Area of Science:

• Neonatal immunology
• Gastroenterology
• Microbiome research

Background:

• Intestinal barrier immaturity, or "leaky gut," increases necrotizing enterocolitis risk in preterm neonates.
• Gut microbiota dysbiosis and immune responses are key factors in aberrant intestinal maturation.
• The specific immune elements driving gut maturation remain largely uncharacterized.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate fecal cytokine profiles and gut microbiota in preterm infants.
• To identify immune markers associated with intestinal barrier maturation.
• To understand the interplay between microbiota, immunity, and intestinal permeability.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of fecal cytokine profiles and gut microbiota composition.
• Study cohort: 40 preterm infants (<33 weeks gestation).
• Correlation of microbiota types with intestinal permeability and feeding patterns.

Main Results:

• Three distinct microbiota types were identified, differentially associated with intestinal permeability (IP), breast milk feeding, and immune profiles.
• Staphylococcus epidermidis- and Enterobacteriaceae-predominant microbiota correlated with elevated IP and reduced breast milk feeding.
• Lower IP was associated with increased fecal IL-1α/β and a diverse anaerobic microbiota with high fermentative capacity.

Conclusions:

• Both immunological and microbiological factors critically influence early intestinal barrier development.
• These factors collectively shape the intestinal microenvironment, impacting gut homeostasis and maturation in preterm newborns.
• Identifying specific immune and microbial markers can aid in understanding and potentially improving gut health in vulnerable neonates.