Targeting the Microbiota Reverses C-Section-Induced Effects on Intestinal Permeability, Microbiota Composition, and...

Area of Science:

• Microbiology
• Immunology
• Developmental Biology

Background:

• The gut microbiome is critical for gastrointestinal and immune system development.
• Delivery mode (Caesarean section vs. vaginal birth) significantly impacts infant microbiota composition.
• Early-life nutritional interventions with probiotics or prebiotics may correct CS-associated microbial imbalances.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess gut permeability in Caesarean section (CS) mice compared to vaginal birth (VB) mice.
• To investigate if prebiotic or probiotic administration could mitigate CS-induced gut deficiencies.
• To explore the impact of CS delivery on neurotransmitter gene expression and the potential of interventions.

Main Methods:

• Utilized a mouse model for CS delivery.
• Measured plasma macromolecule levels (FITC) to assess gut permeability at multiple postnatal days.
• Analyzed ileal gene expression of tight junction proteins and intestinal microbiome composition.
• Examined amygdala gene expression related to neurotransmitter physiology.
• Administered Bifidobacterium breve or GOS/FOS to evaluate their effects.

Main Results:

• CS mice showed increased ileal permeability and reduced tight junction protein expression at PND7.
• Microbiome beta diversity differed between CS and VB mice, particularly pre-weaning.
• Probiotic or prebiotic interventions alleviated changes in Epcam expression and increased beta diversity post-weaning.
• CS mice exhibited altered amygdala neurotransmitter gene expression, which was mitigated by interventions.

Conclusions:

• Targeted microbiota-associated interventions can effectively reverse intestinal permeability deficits induced by CS delivery.
• Probiotics and prebiotics show potential in restoring gut barrier function and mitigating neurodevelopmental alterations in CS-born individuals.