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Probiotics and E. coli infections in man
R Lodinová-Zádníková1, U Sonnenborn, H Tlaskalová
1Institute for Care of Mother and Child, Czech Academy of Sciences, Prague, Czech Republic.
Abstract:
After oral administration of live oral vaccines COLINFANT and MUTAFLOR prepared from non-enteropathogenic E. coli strains, both strains colonized effectively the intestine in full-term and preterm infants and remained for many weeks showing, that they were capable to establish themselves as a resident strain in the infant's gut. The presence of E. coli stimulated significantly antibody production in gut, saliva and serum of colonized infants. An early induction of secretory IgA production is important particularly in formula-fed infants, where it partly replaces the lacking immunoglobulin supplied with mother milk. In full-term and premature infants the early presence of non-pathogenic E. coli strains in the intestine decreased significantly the presence of pathogenic bacterial strains in the intestine but also other mucosal surfaces of the body. The COLINFANT strain decreased the number of nosocomial infections, mortality rate in connection with infection, and the need for antibiotics. Both strains replaced successfully pathogenic strains in carriers after treatment with antibiotics.
Insights
Live, non-pathogenic E. coli strains COLINFANT and MUTAFLOR successfully colonize infant guts, boosting antibody production and reducing harmful bacteria. This colonization decreases infections and antibiotic needs in infants.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Immunology
- Pediatrics
Background:
- Infant gut microbiota plays a crucial role in immune development.
- Formula-fed infants may lack crucial immunoglobulins found in breast milk.
- Non-enteropathogenic E. coli strains offer potential for gut health modulation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the colonization efficacy of COLINFANT and MUTAFLOR in infants.
- To assess the impact of these E. coli strains on infant immune responses.
- To determine the protective effects against pathogenic bacteria and infections.
Main Methods:
- Oral administration of live COLINFANT and MUTAFLOR (non-enteropathogenic E. coli strains).
- Monitoring of E. coli colonization in the infant gut.
- Measurement of antibody production (secretory IgA) in gut, saliva, and serum.
- Assessment of pathogenic bacterial presence and infection rates.
Main Results:
- Both E. coli strains effectively colonized the intestines of full-term and preterm infants.
- Colonization significantly stimulated antibody production (gut, saliva, serum).
- Presence of E. coli reduced pathogenic bacteria and nosocomial infections, lowering mortality and antibiotic use.
Conclusions:
- Non-enteropathogenic E. coli strains COLINFANT and MUTAFLOR are effective colonizers of the infant gut.
- These strains enhance infant immune defenses, particularly secretory IgA production.
- Early colonization with these E. coli strains provides significant protection against pathogens and infections.