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Updated: Aug 7, 2026
08:50
A Murine Model of Fetal Exposure to Maternal Inflammation to Study the Effects of Acute Chorioamnionitis on Newborn Intestinal Development
Published on: June 24, 2020
Maternal and infant gut microbiome
Huidi Wang1, Felicia Tin2, Hui Chen3
1Microbiome Medicine Center, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Zhujiang Hospital Southern Medical University Guangzhou China.
Imeta
|August 6, 2026
Summary
Early-life gut microbiome development is crucial for lifelong health. This review outlines a framework for understanding microbial and host interactions from preconception through early childhood, guiding precision interventions.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Developmental Biology
- Immunology
Background:
- Early-life gut microbiome assembly significantly impacts lifelong health.
- Integrated frameworks for microbiome development across key milestones are lacking.
- Understanding host-microbiome interactions is crucial for pediatric health.
Purpose of the Study:
- To establish a multidimensional framework for gut microbiome and host crosstalk.
- To delineate microbial and host interactions across preconception, prenatal, postpartum, and early childhood stages.
- To propose a "developmental synchronization" model for precision interventions.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on gut microbiome assembly and host development.
- Delineation of microbial contributions from parental niches.
- Analysis of maternal microbiota-derived metabolites and vertical transmission.
- Examination of postpartum microbiome development and influencing factors.
- Proposal of a "developmental synchronization" model.
Main Results:
- Biparental microbial contributions prime offspring development.
- Maternal gut microbiota and metabolites play roles in prenatal priming and vertical transmission.
- Delivery modes and clinical interventions impact postpartum microbiome development.
- A discrepancy exists between taxonomic "catch-up" and functional restoration in vulnerable infants.
- The "developmental synchronization" model highlights critical "windows of opportunity".
Conclusions:
- A comprehensive framework for early-life gut microbiome assembly is established.
- The "developmental synchronization" model provides insights into host-microbiome interactions.
- This framework supports the development of precision interventions targeting the first 1000 days of life.
- Restoring microbial composition and synchronized function is key for optimal development.
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