Environmental microbiota as a regulator of children's health: a one health perspective

Area of Science:

• Microbiology
• Environmental Health
• Pediatrics

Background:

• The human body hosts diverse microbial communities, primarily bacteria, known as the microbiota.
• Microbiota composition is established early in life but can be altered by internal and external factors, potentially leading to dysbiosis and health issues.
• A One Health approach recognizes the interconnectedness of human, animal, and environmental health.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the influence of environmental microbiota on children's microbiota composition and health.
• To explore strategies for modifying environmental microbiota to benefit children's health.
• To highlight the need for further research on environmental microbiota interventions.

Main Methods:

• Literature review focusing on the One Health perspective.
• Analysis of how soil, food, dust, and plant-associated microbiota impact children's microbial communities.
• Examination of potential interventions to alter environmental microbiota.

Main Results:

• Environmental factors like soil, food, and dust play a crucial role in shaping children's microbiota.
• Alterations in the environment can lead to changes in the child's microbiota, affecting their health outcomes.
• Understanding these interactions is key to developing strategies for health promotion.

Conclusions:

• Environmental microbiota significantly influences children's health through its impact on their gut microbiome.
• Modulating the child's environment presents a viable strategy for improving microbiota composition and overall health.
• Further intervention studies are essential to validate and optimize these approaches.