Reduced Gut Bacterial Diversity in Early Life Predicts Feeding Intolerance in Preterm Neonates

Area of Science:

• Neonatology
• Microbiology
• Gastroenterology

Background:

• Gut microbiota is vital for intestinal maturation in preterm infants.
• Feeding intolerance (FI) is a clinical sign of gastrointestinal immaturity in neonates, potentially progressing to necrotizing enterocolitis.
• Early identification of neonates at risk for FI is crucial for timely nutritional support.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the relationship between gut microbiota composition and feeding tolerance in preterm newborns.
• To identify specific bacterial taxa associated with feeding intolerance in early neonatal life.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of bacterial composition in stool samples from 30 preterm newborns.
• Classification of newborns as tolerant or intolerant to enteral nutrition.
• Statistical analysis of microbial diversity (Pielou evenness) and abundance.

Main Results:

• Intolerant newborns exhibited significantly increased Pielou evenness compared to tolerant newborns.
• Lower bacterial diversity early in life was independently associated with improved feeding tolerance.
• Neonates with feeding intolerance showed increased abundance of Proteobacteria, Lachnospiraceae, Enterobacter, and Acinetobacter.

Conclusions:

• Early-life gut microbial diversity influences feeding tolerance in preterm infants.
• Specific bacterial taxa may impede the establishment of beneficial pioneer bacteria, contributing to feeding intolerance.
• Lower alpha-diversity may promote the colonization of beneficial bacteria, supporting healthy gut development.