Effects of Sepsis on Immune Response, Microbiome and Oxidative Metabolism in Preterm Infants

Area of Science:

• Neonatal immunology
• Microbiology
• Critical care medicine

Background:

• Bacterial sepsis presents a significant threat to preterm infants, characterized by high incidence, morbidity, and mortality.
• The complex interplay of host defense mechanisms and pathogen factors contributes to sepsis pathogenesis in this vulnerable population.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the intricate mechanisms underlying bacterial sepsis in preterm neonates.
• To elucidate the role of the innate immune response and oxidative stress in sepsis development.
• To explore the potential of these mechanisms as early diagnostic biomarkers and their impact on neonatal gut microbiota.

Main Methods:

• Narrative review of existing literature.
• Analysis of the innate immune system's function in neonatal sepsis.
• Examination of oxidative stress markers and their correlation with sepsis.
• Assessment of sepsis-induced alterations in neonatal microbiota and dysbiosis.

Main Results:

• The innate immune system plays a critical role in sepsis pathogenesis, often exacerbated by oxidative stress.
• Specific immune markers and oxidative stress indicators show potential for early sepsis detection in preterm infants.
• Sepsis significantly disrupts the developing neonatal microbiota, leading to dysbiosis with potential long-term consequences.

Conclusions:

• Bacterial sepsis in preterm infants involves a complex interplay of innate immunity and oxidative stress.
• Early identification of sepsis biomarkers is crucial for improving outcomes.
• Understanding sepsis-induced microbiota dysbiosis is essential for developing targeted interventions.