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Applying Advanced In Vitro Culturing Technology to Study the Human Gut Microbiota
06:23

Applying Advanced In Vitro Culturing Technology to Study the Human Gut Microbiota

Published on: February 15, 2019

Distinct early gut microbiota patterns by delivery mode within 100 hours of birth

Palittiya Sintusek1, Pavit Klomkliew2, Suthida Visedthorn2

  • 1Center of Excellence in Thai Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Immunology, Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Pediatrics, King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok 10330, Thailand. palittiya.s@chula.ac.th.

World Journal of Clinical Pediatrics
|June 1, 2026
PubMed

Insights

Cesarean section (CS) delivery in neonates is linked to altered gut microbiota composition and reduced beneficial Bifidobacterium colonization within the first 100 hours. Targeted strategies may support CS-infant gut health.

Area of Science:

  • Microbiology
  • Neonatal Health
  • Gut Microbiome Research

Background:

  • Early-life gut microbiome disruptions are linked to health issues.
  • Limited research exists on gut microbiota establishment in the immediate postnatal period.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To characterize the gut microbiota of neonates within the first 100 hours after birth.
  • To investigate the impact of delivery mode on early microbial colonization.

Main Methods:

  • Analysis of stool samples from 140 healthy neonates using 16S rDNA sequencing.
  • Categorization of samples by delivery mode (vaginal delivery vs. cesarean section) and collection time.
  • Assessment of microbiota diversity and composition.

Main Results:

  • Cesarean section (CS) delivery was associated with higher gut microbiota diversity (alpha and beta).
  • A reduction in gut microbiota diversity was observed 48 hours post-birth.
  • CS neonates showed reduced Bifidobacterium colonization and increased skin/environmental taxa compared to vaginal delivery infants.

Conclusions:

  • Delivery mode significantly influences early gut microbial assembly in neonates.
  • CS-delivered infants exhibit distinct gut microbiota profiles, with reduced beneficial bacteria.
  • Targeted interventions are needed to promote healthy gut microbiota in infants born via CS.
Abstract

Keywords:
Cesarean sectionEarly lifeFeedingGut microbiotaNeonateNormal labor

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