Fetal and preterm infant microbiomes: a new perspective of necrotizing enterocolitis.
10.3345/kjp.2017.60.10.307
- Author:
Yong Sung CHOI
1
;
In Gyu SONG
Author Information
1. Department of Pediatrics, Kyung Hee University School of Medicine, Seoul, Korea. feelhope@khu.ac.kr
- Publication Type:Review
- Keywords:
Microbiome;
Preterm infants;
Fetus;
Necrotizing enterocolitis
- MeSH:
Colon;
Enterocolitis, Necrotizing*;
Fetus;
Humans;
Immune System;
Infant, Newborn;
Infant, Premature*;
Microbiota*;
Mothers
- From:Korean Journal of Pediatrics
2017;60(10):307-311
- CountryRepublic of Korea
- Language:English
-
Abstract:
Necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) is a devastating condition of hospitalized preterm infants. Numerous studies have attempted to identify the cause of NEC by examining the immunological features associated with pathogenic microorganisms. No single organism has proven responsible for the disease; however, immunological studies are now focused on the microbiome. Recent research has investigated the numerous bacterial species residing in the body and their role in diseases in preterm infants. The timing of initial microbial colonization is a subject of interest. The microbiome appears to transfer from the mother to the newborn, as well as to the fetus. Cross-talk between the fetus and fetal microbiome takes place continuously to generate a unique immune system. This review examined the transfer of the microbiome to the human fetus, and its potential relationship with NEC.
