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Virk MS, Virk MA, He Y, Tufail T, Gul M, Qayum A, Rehman A, Rashid A, Ekumah JN, Han X, Wang J, Ren X. The Anti-Inflammatory and Curative Exponent of Probiotics: A Comprehensive and Authentic Ingredient for the Sustained Functioning of Major Human Organs. Nutrients 2024; 16:546. [PMID: 38398870 PMCID: PMC10893534 DOI: 10.3390/nu16040546] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2024] [Revised: 02/10/2024] [Accepted: 02/14/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Several billion microorganisms reside in the gastrointestinal lumen, including viruses, bacteria, fungi, and yeast. Among them, probiotics were primarily used to cure digestive disorders such as intestinal infections and diarrhea; however, with a paradigm shift towards alleviating health through food, their importance is large. Moreover, recent studies have changed the perspective that probiotics prevent numerous ailments in the major organs. Probiotics primarily produce biologically active compounds targeting discommodious pathogens. This review demonstrates the implications of using probiotics from different genres to prevent and alleviate ailments in the primary human organs. The findings reveal that probiotics immediately activate anti-inflammatory mechanisms by producing anti-inflammatory cytokines such as interleukin (IL)-4, IL-10, IL-11, and IL-13, and hindering pro-inflammatory cytokines such as IL-1, IL-6, and TNF-α by involving regulatory T cells (Tregs) and T helper cells (Th cells). Several strains of Lactobacillus plantarum, Lactobacillus rhamnosus, Lactobacillus casei, Lactobacillus reuteri, Bifidobacterium longum, and Bifidobacterium breve have been listed among the probiotics that are excellent in alleviating various simple to complex ailments. Therefore, the importance of probiotics necessitates robust research to unveil the implications of probiotics, including the potency of strains, the optimal dosages, the combination of probiotics, their habitat in the host, the host response, and other pertinent factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muhammad Safiullah Virk
- School of Food and Biological Engineering, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang 212013, China; (M.S.V.)
| | | | - Yufeng He
- School of Food and Biological Engineering, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang 212013, China; (M.S.V.)
| | - Tabussam Tufail
- School of Food and Biological Engineering, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang 212013, China; (M.S.V.)
- University Institute of Diet and Nutritional Sciences, The University of Lahore, Lahore 54000, Pakistan
| | - Mehak Gul
- Department of Internal Medicine, Sheikh Zayed Hospital, Lahore 54000, Pakistan
| | - Abdul Qayum
- School of Food and Biological Engineering, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang 212013, China; (M.S.V.)
| | - Abdur Rehman
- School of Food and Biological Engineering, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang 212013, China; (M.S.V.)
| | - Arif Rashid
- School of Food and Biological Engineering, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang 212013, China; (M.S.V.)
| | - John-Nelson Ekumah
- School of Food and Biological Engineering, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang 212013, China; (M.S.V.)
| | - Xu Han
- School of Food and Biological Engineering, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang 212013, China; (M.S.V.)
| | - Junxia Wang
- School of Food and Biological Engineering, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang 212013, China; (M.S.V.)
| | - Xiaofeng Ren
- School of Food and Biological Engineering, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang 212013, China; (M.S.V.)
- Institute of Food Physical Processing, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang 212013, China
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Sharif S, Meader N, Oddie SJ, Rojas-Reyes MX, McGuire W. Probiotics to prevent necrotising enterocolitis in very preterm or very low birth weight infants. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2023; 7:CD005496. [PMID: 37493095 PMCID: PMC10370900 DOI: 10.1002/14651858.cd005496.pub6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/27/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Intestinal dysbiosis may contribute to the pathogenesis of necrotising enterocolitis (NEC) in very preterm or very low birth weight (VLBW) infants. Dietary supplementation with probiotics to modulate the intestinal microbiome has been proposed as a strategy to reduce the risk of NEC and associated mortality and morbidity in very preterm or VLBW infants. OBJECTIVES To determine the effect of supplemental probiotics on the risk of NEC and associated mortality and morbidity in very preterm or very low birth weight infants. SEARCH METHODS We searched CENTRAL, MEDLINE, Embase, the Maternity and Infant Care database, and CINAHL from inception to July 2022. We searched clinical trials databases and conference proceedings, and examined the reference lists of retrieved articles. SELECTION CRITERIA We included randomised controlled trials (RCTs) and quasi-RCTs comparing probiotics with placebo or no probiotics in very preterm infants (born before 32 weeks' gestation) and VLBW infants (weighing less than 1500 g at birth). DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS Two review authors independently evaluated risk of bias of the trials, extracted data, and synthesised effect estimates using risk ratios (RRs), risk differences (RDs), and mean differences (MDs), with associated 95% confidence intervals (CIs). The primary outcomes were NEC and all-cause mortality; secondary outcome measures were late-onset invasive infection (more than 48 hours after birth), duration of hospitalisation from birth, and neurodevelopmental impairment. We used the GRADE approach to assess the certainty of the evidence. MAIN RESULTS We included 60 trials with 11,156 infants. Most trials were small (median sample size 145 infants). The main potential sources of bias were unclear reporting of methods for concealing allocation and masking caregivers or investigators in about half of the trials. The formulation of the probiotics varied across trials. The most common preparations contained Bifidobacterium spp., Lactobacillus spp., Saccharomyces spp., andStreptococcus spp., alone or in combination. Very preterm or very low birth weight infants Probiotics may reduce the risk of NEC (RR 0.54, 95% CI 0.46 to 0.65; I² = 17%; 57 trials, 10,918 infants; low certainty). The number needed to treat for an additional beneficial outcome (NNTB) was 33 (95% CI 25 to 50). Probiotics probably reduce mortality slightly (RR 0.77, 95% CI 0.66 to 0.90; I² = 0%; 54 trials, 10,484 infants; moderate certainty); the NNTB was 50 (95% CI 50 to 100). Probiotics probably have little or no effect on the risk of late-onset invasive infection (RR 0.89, 95% CI 0.82 to 0.97; I² = 22%; 49 trials, 9876 infants; moderate certainty). Probiotics may have little or no effect on neurodevelopmental impairment (RR 1.03, 95% CI 0.84 to 1.26; I² = 0%; 5 trials, 1518 infants; low certainty). Extremely preterm or extremely low birth weight infants Few data were available for extremely preterm or extremely low birth weight (ELBW) infants. In this population, probiotics may have little or no effect on NEC (RR 0.92, 95% CI 0.69 to 1.22, I² = 0%; 10 trials, 1836 infants; low certainty), all-cause mortality (RR 0.92, 95% CI 0.72 to 1.18; I² = 0%; 7 trials, 1723 infants; low certainty), or late-onset invasive infection (RR 0.93, 95% CI 0.78 to 1.09; I² = 0%; 7 trials, 1533 infants; low certainty). No trials provided data for measures of neurodevelopmental impairment in extremely preterm or ELBW infants. AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS Given the low to moderate certainty of evidence for the effects of probiotic supplements on the risk of NEC and associated morbidity and mortality for very preterm or VLBW infants, and particularly for extremely preterm or ELBW infants, there is a need for further large, high-quality trials to provide evidence of sufficient validity and applicability to inform policy and practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sahar Sharif
- Centre for Reviews and Dissemination, University of York, York, UK
| | - Nicholas Meader
- Centre for Reviews and Dissemination, University of York, York, UK
| | - Sam J Oddie
- Centre for Reviews and Dissemination, University of York, York, UK
- Bradford Neonatology, Bradford Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Bradford, UK
| | - Maria X Rojas-Reyes
- Institut d'Recerca Hospital de la Santa Creu i Sant Pau, Biomedical Research Institute Sant Pau (IIB Sant Pau), Barcelona, Spain
- Evaluation Unit of the Canary Islands Health Service (SESCS), Tenerife, Spain
| | - William McGuire
- Centre for Reviews and Dissemination, University of York, York, UK
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Patel N, Evans K, Berrington J, Szatkowski L, Costeloe K, Ojha S, Fleming P, Battersby C. How frequent is routine use of probiotics in UK neonatal units? BMJ Paediatr Open 2023; 7:e002012. [PMID: 37451704 PMCID: PMC10351264 DOI: 10.1136/bmjpo-2023-002012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2023] [Accepted: 05/27/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE There is a lack of UK guidance regarding routine use of probiotics in preterm infants to prevent necrotising enterocolitis, late-onset sepsis and death. As practices can vary, we aimed to determine the current usage of probiotics within neonatal units in the UK. DESIGN AND SETTING Using NeoTRIPS, a trainee-led neonatal research network, an online survey was disseminated to neonatal units of all service levels within England, Scotland, Northern Ireland and Wales in 2022. Trainees were requested to complete one survey per unit regarding routine probiotic administration. RESULTS 161 of 188 (86%) neonatal units responded to the survey. 70 of 161 (44%) respondents routinely give probiotics to preterm infants. 45 of 70 (64%) use the probiotic product Lactobacillus acidophilus NCFM/Bifidobacterium bifidum Bb-06/B. infantis Bi-26 (Labinic™). 57 of 70 (81%) start probiotics in infants ≤32 weeks' gestation. 33 of 70 (47%) had microbiology departments that were aware of the use of probiotics and 64 of 70 (91%) had a guideline available. Commencing enteral feeds was a prerequisite to starting probiotics in 62 of 70 (89%) units. The majority would stop probiotics if enteral feeds were withheld (59 of 70; 84%) or if the infant was being treated for necrotising enterocolitis (69 of 70; 99%). 24 of 91 (26%) units that did not use probiotics at the time of the survey were planning to introduce them within the next 12 months. CONCLUSIONS More than 40% of all UK neonatal units that responded are now routinely administering probiotics, with variability in the product used. With increased probiotic usage in recent years, there is a need to establish whether this translates to improved clinical outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Neaha Patel
- Department of Neonatology, Homerton Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Katie Evans
- Neonatal Medicine, School of Public Health Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Janet Berrington
- Department of Neonatology, Newcastle upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
- Translational and Clinical Research Institute, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Lisa Szatkowski
- Centre for Perinatal Research, Lifespan and Population Health, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Nottingham, UK
| | - Kate Costeloe
- Department of Neonatology, Homerton Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
- Genomics and Child Health, Queen Mary University of London Barts and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry, London, UK
| | - Shalini Ojha
- Centre for Perinatal Research, Lifespan and Population Health, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Nottingham, UK
- Neonatal Unit, University Hospitals of Derby and Burton NHS Foundation Trust, Derby, UK
| | - Paul Fleming
- Department of Neonatology, Homerton Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
- Genomics and Child Health, Queen Mary University of London Barts and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry, London, UK
| | - Cheryl Battersby
- Neonatal Medicine, School of Public Health Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, London, UK
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DeVeaux A, Ryou J, Dantas G, Warner BB, Tarr PI. Microbiome-targeting therapies in the neonatal intensive care unit: safety and efficacy. Gut Microbes 2023; 15:2221758. [PMID: 37358104 PMCID: PMC10294772 DOI: 10.1080/19490976.2023.2221758] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2022] [Accepted: 05/25/2023] [Indexed: 06/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Microbiome-targeting therapies have received great attention as approaches to prevent disease in infants born preterm, but their safety and efficacy remain uncertain. Here we summarize the existing literature, focusing on recent meta-analyses and systematic reviews that evaluate the performance of probiotics, prebiotics, and/or synbiotics in clinical trials and studies, emphasizing interventions for which the primary or secondary outcomes were prevention of necrotizing enterocolitis, late-onset sepsis, feeding intolerance, and/or reduction in hospitalization length or all-cause mortality. Current evidence suggests that probiotics and prebiotics are largely safe but conclusions regarding their effectiveness in the neonatal intensive care unit have been mixed. To address this ambiguity, we evaluated publications that collectively support benefits of probiotics with moderate to high certainty evidence in a recent comprehensive network meta-analysis, highlighting limitations in these trials that make it difficult to support with confidence the routine, universal administration of probiotics to preterm infants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna DeVeaux
- The Edison Family Center for Genome Sciences and Systems Biology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Jian Ryou
- The Edison Family Center for Genome Sciences and Systems Biology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Gautam Dantas
- The Edison Family Center for Genome Sciences and Systems Biology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
- Department of Molecular Microbiology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Division of Laboratory and Genomic Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Barbara B. Warner
- Department of Pediatrics, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Phillip I. Tarr
- Department of Molecular Microbiology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
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Fleming P. Is it time for routine probiotic use in UK neonatal units? Arch Dis Child Fetal Neonatal Ed 2022; 107:344-345. [PMID: 35190396 DOI: 10.1136/archdischild-2021-323091] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2021] [Accepted: 02/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Paul Fleming
- Neonatal Unit, Homerton University Hospital, London, UK .,Centre for Genomics and Child Health, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
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Feng T, Liu Y. Microorganisms in the reproductive system and probiotic's regulatory effects on reproductive health. Comput Struct Biotechnol J 2022; 20:1541-1553. [PMID: 35465162 PMCID: PMC9010680 DOI: 10.1016/j.csbj.2022.03.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2021] [Revised: 03/16/2022] [Accepted: 03/18/2022] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The presence of microbial communities in the reproductive tract has been revealed, and this resident microbiota is involved in the maintenance of health. Intentional modulation via probiotics has been proposed as a possible strategy to enhance reproductive health and reduce the risk of diseases. The male seminal microbiota has been suggested as an important factor that influences a couple’s health, pregnancy outcomes, and offspring health. Probiotics have been reported to play a role in male fertility and to affect the health of mothers and offspring. While the female reproductive microbiota is more complicated and has been identified in both the upper and lower reproductive systems, they together contribute to health maintenance. Probiotics have shown regulatory effects on the female reproductive tract, thereby contributing to homeostasis of the tract and influencing the health of offspring. Further, through transmission of bacteria or through other indirect mechanisms, the parent’s reproductive microbiota and probiotic intervention influence infant gut colonization and immunity development, with potential health consequences. In vitro and in vivo studies have explored the mechanisms underlying the benefits of probiotic administration and intervention, and an array of positive results, such as modulation of microbiota composition, regulation of metabolism, promotion of the epithelial barrier, and improvement of immune function, have been observed. Herein, we review the state of the art in reproductive system microbiota and its role in health and reproduction, as well as the beneficial effects of probiotics on reproductive health and their contributions to the prevention of associated diseases.
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Abstract
Appropriate nutrition is essential for optimal development and growth of preterm infants. Infants less than 25 weeks corrected gestational age are frequently the most difficult group for which to provide adequate nutrition due to minimal energy stores and high fluid losses. Nutrient delivery becomes an integral, but also very challenging part in their management. Early administration of intravenous nutrients provides a critical bridge to full enteral nutrition. However, enteral feeding is challenging due to immaturities of the intestinal tract, feeding intolerance and the risk of catastrophic gastrointestinal disease such as necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC). Decreased gastric acid production, increased gut permeability, reduced immunoglobulins, immature intestinal epithelia and a decreased mucin barrier all contribute to weakness to gastrointestinal insult. This review aims to illustrate the importance of enteral feeding and the common challenges and approaches in the nutrition of infants born at this age.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Patton
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Neonatology, University of Florida College of Medicine, 1600 SW Archer Road, Gainesville, FL 32610, USA
| | - Diomel de la Cruz
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Neonatology, University of Florida College of Medicine, 1600 SW Archer Road, Gainesville, FL 32610, USA.
| | - Josef Neu
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Neonatology, University of Florida College of Medicine, 1600 SW Archer Road, Gainesville, FL 32610, USA
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Nunez N, Réot L, Menu E. Neonatal Immune System Ontogeny: The Role of Maternal Microbiota and Associated Factors. How Might the Non-Human Primate Model Enlighten the Path? Vaccines (Basel) 2021; 9:584. [PMID: 34206053 PMCID: PMC8230289 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines9060584] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2021] [Revised: 05/26/2021] [Accepted: 05/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Interactions between the immune system and the microbiome play a crucial role on the human health. These interactions start in the prenatal period and are critical for the maturation of the immune system in newborns and infants. Several factors influence the composition of the infant's microbiota and subsequently the development of the immune system. They include maternal infection, antibiotic treatment, environmental exposure, mode of delivery, breastfeeding, and food introduction. In this review, we focus on the ontogeny of the immune system and its association to microbial colonization from conception to food diversification. In this context, we give an overview of the mother-fetus interactions during pregnancy, the impact of the time of birth and the mode of delivery, the neonate gastrointestinal colonization and the role of breastfeeding, weaning, and food diversification. We further review the impact of the vaccination on the infant's microbiota and the reciprocal case. Finally, we discuss several potential therapeutic interventions that might help to improve the newborn and infant's health and their responses to vaccination. Throughout the review, we underline the main scientific questions that are left to be answered and how the non-human primate model could help enlighten the path.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalia Nunez
- CEA, Université Paris-Sud, Inserm, U1184 “Immunology of Viral Infections and Autoimmune Diseases” (IMVA-HB), IDMIT Department, IBFJ, 92265 Fontenay-aux-Roses, France; (N.N.); (L.R.)
| | - Louis Réot
- CEA, Université Paris-Sud, Inserm, U1184 “Immunology of Viral Infections and Autoimmune Diseases” (IMVA-HB), IDMIT Department, IBFJ, 92265 Fontenay-aux-Roses, France; (N.N.); (L.R.)
| | - Elisabeth Menu
- CEA, Université Paris-Sud, Inserm, U1184 “Immunology of Viral Infections and Autoimmune Diseases” (IMVA-HB), IDMIT Department, IBFJ, 92265 Fontenay-aux-Roses, France; (N.N.); (L.R.)
- MISTIC Group, Department of Virology, Institut Pasteur, 75015 Paris, France
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Bifidobacterium breve BBG-001 and intestinal barrier function in preterm babies: Exploratory Studies from the PiPS Trial. Pediatr Res 2021; 89:1818-1824. [PMID: 32947603 DOI: 10.1038/s41390-020-01135-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2020] [Revised: 08/09/2020] [Accepted: 08/11/2020] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Uncertainty remains about the role of probiotics to prevent necrotising enterocolitis (NEC) some of which arises from the variety of probiotic interventions used in different trials, many with no prior evidence of potential efficacy. Mechanistic studies of intestinal barrier function embedded in a large probiotic trial could provide evidence about which properties of probiotics might be important for NEC prevention thus facilitating identification of strains with therapeutic potential. METHODS Intestinal permeability, stool microbiota, SCFAs and mucosal inflammation were assessed from the second postnatal week in babies enrolled to a randomised controlled trial of B. breve BBG-001 (the PiPS trial). Results were compared by allocation and by stool colonisation with the probiotic. RESULTS Ninety-four preterm babies were recruited across six nested studies. B. breve BBG-001 content was higher by allocation and colonisation; Enterobacteriaceae and acetic acid levels were higher by colonisation. No measure of intestinal barrier function showed differences. The PiPS trial found no evidence of efficacy to reduce NEC. CONCLUSIONS That the negative results of the PiPS trial were associated with failure of this probiotic to modify intestinal barrier function supports the possibility that the tests described here have the potential to identify strains to progress to large clinical trials. IMPACT Uncertainty about the therapeutic role of probiotics to prevent necrotising enterocolitis is in part due to the wide range of bacterial strains with no previous evidence of efficacy used in clinical trials. We hypothesised that mechanistic studies embedded in a probiotic trial would provide evidence about which properties of probiotics might be important for NEC prevention. The finding that the probiotic strain tested, Bifidobacterium breve BBG-001, showed neither effects on intestinal barrier function nor clinical efficacy supports the possibility that these tests have the potential to identify strains to progress to large clinical trials.
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Thänert R, Keen EC, Dantas G, Warner BB, Tarr PI. Necrotizing Enterocolitis and the Microbiome: Current Status and Future Directions. J Infect Dis 2020; 223:S257-S263. [PMID: 33330904 DOI: 10.1093/infdis/jiaa604] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Decades of research have failed to define the pathophysiology of necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC), a devastating pediatric gastrointestinal disorder of preterm infants. However, evidence suggests that host-microbiota interactions, in which microbial dysbiosis is followed by loss of barrier integrity, inflammation, and necrosis, are central to NEC development. Thus, greater knowledge of the preterm infant microbiome could accelerate attempts to diagnose, treat, and prevent NEC. In this article, we summarize clinical characteristics of and risk factors for NEC, the structure of the pre-event NEC microbiome, how this community interfaces with host immunology, and microbiome-based approaches that might prevent or lessen the severity of NEC in this very vulnerable population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert Thänert
- The Edison Family Center for Genome Sciences and Systems Biology, Washington University School of Medicine in St Louis, St Louis, Missouri, USA.,Department of Pathology and Immunology, Washington University School of Medicine in St Louis, St Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Eric C Keen
- The Edison Family Center for Genome Sciences and Systems Biology, Washington University School of Medicine in St Louis, St Louis, Missouri, USA.,Department of Pathology and Immunology, Washington University School of Medicine in St Louis, St Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Gautam Dantas
- The Edison Family Center for Genome Sciences and Systems Biology, Washington University School of Medicine in St Louis, St Louis, Missouri, USA.,Department of Pathology and Immunology, Washington University School of Medicine in St Louis, St Louis, Missouri, USA.,Department of Molecular Microbiology, Washington University School of Medicine in St Louis, St Louis, Missouri, USA.,Department of Biomedical Engineering, Washington University in St Louis, St Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Barbara B Warner
- Department of Pediatrics, Washington University School of Medicine in St Louis , St Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Phillip I Tarr
- Department of Molecular Microbiology, Washington University School of Medicine in St Louis, St Louis, Missouri, USA.,Department of Pediatrics, Washington University School of Medicine in St Louis , St Louis, Missouri, USA
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Sharif S, Meader N, Oddie SJ, Rojas-Reyes MX, McGuire W. Probiotics to prevent necrotising enterocolitis in very preterm or very low birth weight infants. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2020; 10:CD005496. [PMID: 33058137 PMCID: PMC8094746 DOI: 10.1002/14651858.cd005496.pub5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Intestinal dysbiosis may contribute to the pathogenesis of necrotising enterocolitis (NEC) in very preterm or very low birth weight infants. Dietary supplementation with probiotics to modulate the intestinal microbiome has been proposed as a strategy to reduce the risk of NEC and associated mortality and morbidity. OBJECTIVES: To determine the effect of supplemental probiotics on the risk of NEC and mortality and morbidity in very preterm or very low birth weight infants. SEARCH METHODS We searched Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL; 2020, Issue 2) in the Cochrane Library; MEDLINE Ovid (1946 to 17 Feb 2020), Embase Ovid (1974 to 17 Feb 2020), Maternity & Infant Care Database Ovid (1971 to 17 Feb 2020), the Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature (1982 to 18 Feb 2020). We searched clinical trials databases, conference proceedings, and the reference lists of retrieved articles for randomised controlled trials (RCTs) and quasi-RCTs. SELECTION CRITERIA We included RCTs and quasi-RCTs comparing probiotic supplementation with placebo or no probiotics in very preterm or very low birth weight infants. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS We used the standard methods of Cochrane Neonatal. Two review authors separately evaluated trial quality, extracted data, and synthesised effect estimates using risk ratio (RR), risk difference (RD), and mean difference. We used the GRADE approach to assess the certainty of evidence for effects on NEC, all-cause mortality, late-onset infection, and severe neurodevelopmental impairment. MAIN RESULTS We included 56 trials in which 10,812 infants participated. Most trials were small (median sample size 149). Lack of clarity on methods to conceal allocation and mask caregivers or investigators were the main potential sources of bias in about half of the trials. Trials varied by the formulation of the probiotics. The most commonly used preparations contained Bifidobacterium spp., Lactobacillus spp., Saccharomyces spp., and Streptococcus spp. alone or in combinations. Meta-analysis showed that probiotics may reduce the risk of NEC: RR 0.54, 95% CI 0.45 to 0.65 (54 trials, 10,604 infants; I² = 17%); RD -0.03, 95% CI -0.04 to -0.02; number needed to treat for an additional beneficial outcome (NNTB) 33, 95% CI 25 to 50. Evidence was assessed as low certainty because of the limitations in trials design, and the presence of funnel plot asymmetry consistent with publication bias. Sensitivity meta-analysis of trials at low risk of bias showed a reduced risk of NEC: RR 0.70, 95% CI 0.55 to 0.89 (16 trials, 4597 infants; I² = 25%); RD -0.02, 95% CI -0.03 to -0.01; NNTB 50, 95% CI 33 to 100. Meta-analyses showed that probiotics probably reduce mortality (RR 0.76, 95% CI 0.65 to 0.89; (51 trials, 10,170 infants; I² = 0%); RD -0.02, 95% CI -0.02 to -0.01; NNTB 50, 95% CI 50 to 100), and late-onset invasive infection (RR 0.89, 95% CI 0.82 to 0.97; (47 trials, 9762 infants; I² = 19%); RD -0.02, 95% CI -0.03 to -0.01; NNTB 50, 95% CI 33 to 100). Evidence was assessed as moderate certainty for both these outcomes because of the limitations in trials design. Sensitivity meta-analyses of 16 trials (4597 infants) at low risk of bias did not show an effect on mortality or infection. Meta-analysis showed that probiotics may have little or no effect on severe neurodevelopmental impairment (RR 1.03, 95% CI 0.84 to 1.26 (five trials, 1518 infants; I² = 0%). The certainty on this evidence is low because of limitations in trials design and serious imprecision of effect estimate. Few data (from seven of the trials) were available for extremely preterm or extremely low birth weight infants. Meta-analyses did not show effects on NEC, death, or infection (low-certainty evidence). AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS Given the low to moderate level of certainty about the effects of probiotic supplements on the risk of NEC and associated morbidity and mortality for very preterm or very low birth weight infants, and particularly for extremely preterm or extremely low birth weight infants, further, large, high-quality trials are needed to provide evidence of sufficient quality and applicability to inform policy and practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sahar Sharif
- Centre for Reviews and Dissemination, University of York, York, UK
| | - Nicholas Meader
- Centre for Reviews and Dissemination, University of York, York, UK
| | - Sam J Oddie
- Centre for Reviews and Dissemination, University of York, York, UK
- Bradford Neonatology, Bradford Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Bradford, UK
| | - Maria Ximena Rojas-Reyes
- Department of Clinical Epidemiology and Public Health, Institut de Recerca Hospital Santa Creu i Sant Pau, Barcelona, Spain
| | - William McGuire
- Centre for Reviews and Dissemination, University of York, York, UK
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Kurath-Koller S, Neumann C, Moissl-Eichinger C, Kraschl R, Kanduth C, Hopfer B, Pausan MR, Urlesberger B, Resch B. Hospital Regimens Including Probiotics Guide the Individual Development of the Gut Microbiome of Very Low Birth Weight Infants in the First Two Weeks of Life. Nutrients 2020; 12:E1256. [PMID: 32354144 PMCID: PMC7281991 DOI: 10.3390/nu12051256] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2020] [Revised: 04/23/2020] [Accepted: 04/25/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND It is unknown to what extent the microbiome of preterm infants is influenced by hospital regimens including the use of different probiotics when it comes to the prevention of necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC). METHODS Prospective controlled multicenter cohort study including very low birth weight infants from three neonatal intensive care units (NICUs) between October 2015 and March 2017. During this time span, stool was sampled every other day during the first two weeks and samples were subjected to amplicon-based microbiome analyses. Out of these, seventeen negative controls were processed (German Registry of Clinical Trials (No.: DRKS00009290)). RESULTS The groups (3 × 18 infants) showed no statistically significant difference regarding gestational age, birth weight, APGAR scores and oxygen demand. 2029 different taxa were detected, including Enterococcus and Staphylococcus, as well as the probiotic genera Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium predominating. The bacterial load was found to increase earlier on when probiotics were used. Without probiotics administration, Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium contributed only marginally to the fecal microbiome. Some infants did not respond to probiotic administration. The samples from all centers participating reached a very similar diversity after two weeks while the microbiome samples from all three centers clustered significantly yet varied from each other. CONCLUSION Probiotics proved to be safe and initiated an earlier increase of bacterial load (with marked individual divergences), which might play a crucial role in the prevention of neonatal morbidities. Meconium was found not to be free of bacterial DNA, and oral antibiotics did not influence the fecal microbiome development negatively, and hospital regimes led to a center-specific, distinct cluster formation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefan Kurath-Koller
- Division of Neonatology, Department of Pediatrics, Medical University of Graz, Austria Auenbruggerplatz 34/2, 8036 Graz, Austria
- Division of Pediatric Cardiology, Department of Pediatrics, Medical University of Graz, 8036 Graz, Austria
| | - Charlotte Neumann
- Diagnostic & Research Institute of Hygiene, Microbiology and Environmental Medicine, Medical University Graz, 8010 Graz, Austria
| | - Christine Moissl-Eichinger
- Diagnostic & Research Institute of Hygiene, Microbiology and Environmental Medicine, Medical University Graz, 8010 Graz, Austria
- Biotechmed Graz, 8010 Graz, Austria
| | - Raimund Kraschl
- Department of Pediatrics, General Hospital Klagenfurt am Wörthersee, 9020 Klagenfurt, Austria
| | - Claudia Kanduth
- Department of Pediatrics, General Hospital Klagenfurt am Wörthersee, 9020 Klagenfurt, Austria
| | - Barbara Hopfer
- Department of Pediatrics, General Hospital Hochsteiermark, 8700 Leoben, Austria
| | - Manuela-Raluca Pausan
- Diagnostic & Research Institute of Hygiene, Microbiology and Environmental Medicine, Medical University Graz, 8010 Graz, Austria
| | - Berndt Urlesberger
- Division of Neonatology, Department of Pediatrics, Medical University of Graz, Austria Auenbruggerplatz 34/2, 8036 Graz, Austria
| | - Bernhard Resch
- Division of Neonatology, Department of Pediatrics, Medical University of Graz, Austria Auenbruggerplatz 34/2, 8036 Graz, Austria
- Research Unit for Neonatal Infectious Diseases and Epidemiology, Medical University of Graz, 8036 Graz, Austria
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