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Quantitative and morphologic analysis of bacterial translocation in neonates
L L Go1, H R Ford, S C Watkins
1Department of Surgery, University of Pittsburgh (Pa) School of Medicine.
Archives of Surgery (Chicago, Ill. : 1960)
|November 1, 1994
Summary
Newborn rabbits fed conventional formula showed increased bacterial translocation due to intestinal mucosal changes. Breast milk protected against bacterial passage, highlighting formula
Area of Science:
- Neonatal physiology
- Microbiology
- Gastroenterology
Background:
- Bacterial translocation is a concern in neonates.
- Intestinal barrier integrity is crucial for preventing pathogen entry.
- Dietary factors, such as infant formula, may influence gut health.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the mechanisms of bacterial translocation in formula-fed animals.
- To correlate in vitro bacterial passage with neonatal intestinal mucosal structure.
Main Methods:
- Newborn rabbits were fed either conventional formula or breast milk.
- Bacterial translocation was quantified in lymphoid tissues, liver, and spleen.
- In vitro transmucosal bacterial passage was assessed using Ussing chambers.
- Intestinal mucosal morphology was examined via light, electron, and confocal microscopy.
Main Results:
- Formula-fed rabbits exhibited significant bacterial translocation, unlike breast milk-fed controls.
- In vitro studies showed bacterial adhesion, internalization, and passage through formula-fed rabbit intestinal membranes.
- Microscopy revealed vacuolated epithelial cells and less dense villi in formula-fed animals, with active bacterial phagocytosis and submucosal migration.
Conclusions:
- Formula feeding induces morphological changes in the neonatal intestinal mucosa.
- These alterations may compromise intestinal barrier function, increasing susceptibility to bacterial translocation.