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Alterations in intestinal microbiota composition in children with Hhirschsprung disease: A comparative study with
M Makkadafi1, W Warsinggih2, S As'ad3
1Department of Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, Hasanuddin University, Makassar, Indonesia. munamakkadafi@gmail.com.
Insights
Children with Hirschsprung disease (HSCR) have altered gut bacteria, showing fewer beneficial microbes and more harmful ones like Enterobacteriaceae. This dysbiosis may offer new treatment targets for HSCR.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Pediatric Gastroenterology
- Genetics
Background:
- Hirschsprung disease (HSCR) is a congenital disorder affecting the colon's nerves, leading to bowel obstruction.
- The role of the gut microbiome in HSCR pathogenesis is not well understood.
- Investigating microbial alterations in HSCR is crucial for understanding disease mechanisms.
Purpose of the Study:
- To characterize the fecal microbiota composition in children with Hirschsprung disease.
- To compare the microbiota of HSCR patients with that of healthy controls.
- To identify potential microbial biomarkers associated with HSCR.
Main Methods:
- A comparative cross-sectional study involving 7 preoperative HSCR patients and 3 healthy controls.
- 16S rRNA gene sequencing was used to analyze fecal microbiota composition.
- Clinical data, including nutritional status and medication history, were collected.
Main Results:
- HSCR patients exhibited an eleven-fold increase in Enterobacteriaceae compared to controls.
- A decrease in beneficial bacteria (e.g., Lactobacillus, Bifidobacterium) was observed in HSCR patients.
- An increase in potentially pathogenic bacteria (e.g., Escherichia-Shigella) and a decrease in Firmicutes and Actinobacteria were noted.
Conclusions:
- Children with HSCR present a distinct gut dysbiosis characterized by reduced beneficial bacteria and elevated Enterobacteriaceae.
- These findings suggest that the gut microbiome plays a significant role in HSCR.
- Microbiota-targeted therapies could be a potential strategy for managing HSCR.
Introduction:
Hirschsprung disease (HSCR) is a congenital condition characterized by the absence of ganglion cells in the distal colon, resulting in bowel obstruction and motility disorders. Recent studies have highlighted the role of intestinal microbiota in intestinal health and disease, yet its specific alterations in HSCR patients remain unclear. This study aimed to investigate the intestinal microbiota profile of children with HSCR and compare it with healthy controls to identify potential microbial signatures associated with the disease.
Materials And Methods:
This comparative cross-sectional study analyzed fecal samples from 7 preoperative HSCR patients and 3 healthy controls using 16S rRNA gene sequencing. Inclusion criteria required no antibiotic use within the previous two weeks. Clinical data, including nutritional status, medication history, bowel management methods, and history of HAEC, were recorded. Microbiota composition was compared at the phylum and family levels.
Results:
HSCR patients exhibited significantly higher relative abundance of Enterobacteriaceae (mean 0.2582) compared to healthy controls (mean 0.0236), representing an approximately eleven-fold increase. HSCR patients also showed decreased proportions of Firmicutes, Actinobacteria, Bacilli, and Clostridia, while Bacteroidales were increased. Classification of taxa revealed a reduction in beneficial bacteria (e.g., Lactobacillus, Bifidobacterium) and enrichment of potentially pathogenic taxa (e.g., Escherichia-Shigella).
Conclusion:
HSCR patients demonstrate a distinct dysbiotic microbiota profile, with reduced beneficial taxa and elevated Enterobacteriaceae levels. These findings highlight potential microbiota-targeted strategies for clinical management of HSCR.
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