SEEDING THE MICROBIAL GARDEN: THE NEONATAL MICROBIOTA JOURNEY
Meltem Aksu
Ankara Etlik City Hospital, Department of Neonatology, Ankara, Türkiye
Aksu M. Seeding the Microbial Garden: The Neonatal Microbiata Journey. Melek İM, Aydoğan S, eds. Microbiota. 1st ed. Ankara: Türkiye Klinikleri; 2025. p.51-56.
ABSTRACT
The term “microbiota” refers to the diverse community of microorganisms that inhabit various organs and tissues within the human system, playing a crucial function in metabolic processes, immunity, and overall health throughout an individual’s life. Microbiota development begins in the prenatal stage and is shaped by multiple factors, including maternal health, mode of delivery, nutrition, and environmental influences. Establishing a balanced microbiome early on is essential for neonatal health, as it helps shape immune system development, metabolism, and defense against infections.
Disruptions in microbiota composition, such as those caused by antibiotic use or imbalances like gut dysbiosis, can result in health issues like necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC), sepsis, and long-term conditions such as asthma, atopic dermatidis and inflammatory bowel disease. Additionally, the gut-lung axis, which links the gastrointestinal and respiratory systems, has emerged as a critical factor in neonatal respiratory health. Probiotic supplementation shows potential for modulating gut microbiota to prevent dysbiosis and related complications, though its effectiveness in clinical settings is still under review.
The complex relationship between microbiota and neonatal health highlights the need for strategies that promote healthy microbiome development, including targeted interventions to enhance neonatal outcomes. Understanding the microbiota’s role in supporting immune and metabolic health in neonates is crucial for advancing neonatal care and minimizing the risk of diseases.
Keywords: Newborn; Microbiata; Dysbiosis
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