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The Gut Microbiome in Early Ontogeny: Implications for Brain and Immune System Development

Alejandro Borrego-Ruiz1, Juan J Borrego2

  • 1Departamento de Psicología Social y de las Organizaciones, Universidad Nacional de Educación a Distancia (UNED), 28040 Madrid, Spain.

Journal of Developmental Biology
|June 25, 2026
PubMed

Insights

The gut microbiome significantly influences early brain and immune development. Further research is needed to fully understand its impact on neurodevelopmental disorders and pediatric mental health.

Area of Science:

  • Microbiology
  • Developmental Biology
  • Neuroscience

Background:

  • The gut microbiome is crucial for physiological processes from early life.
  • Its full impact on childhood development requires further investigation.
  • Understanding the gut microbiome's role in early ontogeny is an emerging research area.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the gut microbiome's influence on early human development.
  • To examine its role in brain and immune system development.
  • To explore its involvement in neurodevelopmental disorders and early-life mental health.

Main Methods:

  • This is a narrative review.
  • It examines existing literature on the gut microbiome's effects.
  • Focuses on early human ontogeny, brain, and immune development.

Main Results:

  • The gut microbiome shapes brain and immune system development.
  • Influence is mediated by neurotransmitters, microbial metabolites, and the HPA axis.
  • Mechanisms and full extent of impact are still under investigation.

Conclusions:

  • The gut microbiome is integral to early neurodevelopment and immune function.
  • Further research is essential to elucidate precise mechanisms.
  • Advances offer potential for novel interventions in pediatric health.

Keywords:
brain developmentearly-life mental healthgut microbiomeimmune system developmentneurodevelopmental disorders

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