Related Experiment Video

Updated: Jun 2, 2026

A Novel Method for Involving Women of Color at High Risk for Preterm Birth in Research Priority Setting
14:43

A Novel Method for Involving Women of Color at High Risk for Preterm Birth in Research Priority Setting

Published on: January 12, 2018

Intersectionality of early developmental risks and resilience after preterm birth

Julia Jäkel1,2,3, Janika Ludwig4, Britta Hüning4

  • 1Klinik für Kinderheilkunde I, University Hospital Essen, University Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany. julia.jaekel@uk-essen.de.

Molecular and Cellular Pediatrics
|May 31, 2026
PubMed

Insights

Early life microbiome and brain development are crucial. Preterm infants face challenges affecting the gut-brain axis, highlighting the need for research into modifiable factors for better outcomes.

Area of Science:

  • Developmental biology
  • Neuroscience
  • Microbiome research

Background:

  • The period from conception through preschool is critical for microbiome and brain development.
  • Modifiable factors like delivery mode, antibiotics, nutrition, breastfeeding, and caregiving influence the gut-brain axis.
  • Infants born preterm (<37 weeks gestation) experience challenges impacting gut microbiome and neurobehavioral development, often worsened by social stress.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To understand the complex mechanisms shaping the gut-brain axis in early development.
  • To identify modifiable protective factors for preventing adverse outcomes after preterm birth.
  • To address knowledge gaps in the interaction between gut, brain, and behavioral development over time.

Main Methods:

  • The study emphasizes the need for translational research on the gut-brain axis after preterm birth.
  • Future studies should incorporate social factors (e.g., education, immigrant background) into sampling.
  • Investigate how interventions can optimize long-term outcomes by considering microbiome modifications.

Main Results:

  • A significant knowledge gap exists regarding the interplay of gut, brain, and behavioral development.
  • Social and modifiable factors are key drivers of the gut-brain axis interaction.
  • Preterm birth poses unique challenges to the developing gut microbiome and neurobehavioral trajectories.

Conclusions:

  • Translational research is critically needed to understand the gut-brain axis in preterm infants.
  • Identifying susceptible populations and effective interventions is key for optimizing long-term outcomes.
  • Harnessing modifiable factors offers potential for targeted prevention strategies.

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