Aberrant Microbiota Signatures Precede Symptom Development in Infantile Colic​ скачать в хорошем качестве

Aberrant Microbiota Signatures Precede Symptom Development in Infantile Colic​

In this collaborative study, researchers in The Netherlands investigated the potential role of gut microbiota in the development of infantile colic (IC). The condition is characterized by excessive crying in babies considered otherwise healthy, and is a common source of parental distress, often results in repeated paediatric visits. Study findings have been published in Journal of Pediatric Gastroenterology and Nutrition.​ ​Experts followed 184 term-born infants from birth up to two years of age as part of the INtestinal microbiota Composition after Antibiotic treatment (INCA) study. Faecal samples were collected at eight time points and analysed using 16S rRNA gene sequencing. Of the group, 30 babies developed colic.​ ​The results revealed distinct differences in gut microbiota composition between infants with and without colic, detectable even before symptoms emerged. Those with colic showed higher levels of Pseudomonadota (such as E. coli and Klebsiella) and lower levels of Actinomycetota, particularly Bifidobacterium — a genus known for its anti-inflammatory effects. These differences were most pronounced in babies who showed an early onset of colic symptoms before 4 weeks of age.​ ​“Interestingly, infants that developed colic showed an early spike in Bacteroides at the expense of bifidobacteria from the first day of life. Additionally, Streptococcus — a gas and acid-producing genus — was found to increase during peak crying periods, potentially contributing to discomfort,” notes Jan Knol, Senior Director of Gut Immune & Microbiology at Danone Research & Innovation (Danone R&I). ​ ​The study also highlighted the impact of antibiotic (AB) exposure in the first week of life, which altered gut microbiota composition in both colic and non-colic infants. A 7-day course of antibiotics, compared to a shorter 2-day course, was linked to more significant microbial disturbances and a higher incidence of colic.​ ​According to Jan: “While the findings do not prove a direct cause-and-effect relationship, they suggest that early microbial imbalances could contribute to the development of colic. We propose that identifying microbial markers in early faecal samples could help predict which babies are at risk, offering a path toward personalized prevention or treatment strategies, including more targeted use of biotics. ” ​ ​This study underscores the need for caution in prescribing antibiotics to newborns, advocating for the shortest effective duration, especially in cases with low suspicion of infection.​ ​Read the full paper: https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/1...