Development of Gut Microbiota in the First 1000 Days after Birth and Potential Interventions

Abstract

The first 1000 days after birth represent a critical window for gut microbiome development, which is essential for immune system maturation and overall health. The gut microbiome undergoes major changes during this period due to shifts in diet and environment. Disruptions to the microbiota early in life can have lasting health effects, including increased risks of inflammatory disorders, autoimmune diseases, neurological disorders, and obesity. Maternal and environmental factors during pregnancy and infancy shape the infant gut microbiota. In this article, we will review how maintaining a healthy gut microbiome in pregnancy and infancy is important for long-term infant health. Furthermore, we briefly include fungal colonization and its effects on the host immune function, which are discussed as part of gut microbiome ecosystem. Additionally, we will describe how potential approaches such as hydrogels enriched with prebiotics and probiotics, gut microbiota transplantation (GMT) during pregnancy, age-specific microbial ecosystem therapeutics, and CRISPR therapies targeting the gut microbiota hold potential for advancing research and development. Nevertheless, thorough evaluation of their safety, effectiveness, and lasting impacts is crucial prior to their application in clinical approach. The article emphasizes the need for continued research to optimize gut microbiota and immune system development through targeted early-life interventions.

Celiac disease - a pluripathological model in pediatric practice

“…To this are added particular aspects of the first years of life. However, the data regarding the impact of caesarean section, breastfeeding or the age of introduction of gluten in the diet on the increased risk of CD are contradictory ( 9 , 15 – 17 ). Regarding the time of introducing gluten into the diet (6 versus 12 months), Lionetti E. et al.…”

The role of vitamin D in pediatric systemic lupus erythematosus - a double pawn in the immune and microbial balance

“…Regarding the microbiota, it is important to know that it is in a perpetual change since the neonatal period, influencing the evolutionary course and the response to the treatment of various pathologies through gut-vital organ axes ( 76 – 82 ). Another factor inducing intestinal inflammation and dysbiosis is stress ( 83 ).…”

Maternal Fiber Intake and Perinatal Depression & Anxiety

“…23 In late pregnancy, there is an overall reduction in the gut microbiota, characterized by a decrease in the number of phyla Firmicutes and an increase in Proteobacteria, Actinobacteria, and genus Streptococcus. 24 Vertical transmission of bacteria from mother to infant is particularly important in establishing the infant gut microbiome and the development and maturation of their immune system. In the days after birth, the skin, mouth, and intestine of infants delivered vaginally will be populated by microorganisms from the mother’s vaginal area, feces, breast milk, mouth, and skin.…”

“…Initially after birth, the intestinal microbiota of the newborn is dominated by family Enterobacteriaceae and genus Staphylococcus but is later replaced by genus Bifidobacterium and some lactic acid bacteria. 24 The gut microbiota interacts with gut immune cells, establishing tolerance and dictating the development of inflammatory and autoimmune disorders. The first 1000 days of life is a critical period in the establishment of an infant/child’s microbiome and their subsequent long-term health outcomes.…”

“…Thus, the health of the maternal microbiome during pregnancy and postpartum has a long-reaching impact, beyond maternal well-being. 24 As such, diet, particularly fiber, may play a crucial role to the health of the microbiome and consequently the health of mother and infant.…”