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The role of the early-life gut microbiome in childhood asthma

Ulrika Boulund1, Jonathan Thorsen1, Urvish Trivedi1,2

  • 1Copenhagen Prospective Studies on Asthma in Childhood, Copenhagen University Hospital, Herlev-Gentofte, Gentofte, Denmark.

Gut Microbes
|January 30, 2025
PubMed

Insights

The early-life gut microbiome plays a crucial role in childhood asthma development. Research links factors like birth mode and antibiotic use to gut microbial changes impacting asthma risk.

Area of Science:

  • Microbiology
  • Pediatric Allergy
  • Immunology

Background:

  • Childhood asthma is a prevalent chronic respiratory disease with complex origins.
  • Genetic and environmental factors contribute to asthma etiology.
  • Emerging evidence highlights the gut microbiome's significant role in early-life asthma development.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the current literature on the gut microbiome's influence on childhood asthma.
  • To identify research gaps for future therapeutic strategies.

Main Methods:

  • Systematic review of population studies, in vivo research, and intervention trials.
  • Analysis of associations between early-life factors, gut microbiome alterations, and asthma risk.
  • Examination of specific microbial profiles in children with asthma.

Main Results:

  • Numerous early-life factors (e.g., cesarean birth, antibiotic use, breastfeeding, pets) are linked to asthma via gut microbiome modulation.
  • Specific microbial alterations are observed in children with asthma, though findings vary.
  • The gut microbial ecosystem is integral to asthma pathogenesis.

Conclusions:

  • The gut microbiome is a critical factor in childhood asthma.
  • Further well-designed studies are necessary to elucidate mechanisms and guide clinical applications.
  • Microbial-focused therapies hold potential for asthma prevention and treatment.

Keywords:
Childhood asthmaearly-lifegut microbiomevirome

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