1
|
Wala SJ, Ragan MV, Pryor E, Canvasser J, Diefenbach KA, Besner GE. Contemporary use of prophylactic probiotics in NICUs in the United States: a survey update. J Perinatol 2024; 44:739-744. [PMID: 38553600 DOI: 10.1038/s41372-024-01952-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2023] [Revised: 03/14/2024] [Accepted: 03/20/2024] [Indexed: 05/15/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE In 2015, 14.0% of US NICUs administered probiotics to very low birth weight infants. Current probiotic use prior to and after the Fall of 2023 (when FDA warnings were issued) remains unknown. STUDY DESIGN A survey was distributed to the American Academy of Pediatrics Section on Neonatal and Perinatal Medicine (August-November/2022) and Neonatology Solutions' Level III/IV NICUs (January-April/2023). Probiotic administration practices were investigated. RESULTS In total, 289 unique NICUs and 406 providers responded to the survey. Of those, 29.1% of NICUs administered prophylactic probiotics to premature neonates, however, this decreased considerably after FDA warnings were issued. Additionally, 71.4% of providers stated willingness to administer probiotics to premature infants if there was an FDA-approved formulation. CONCLUSIONS Probiotic use in US NICUs increased between 2015 and the Fall of 2023 and then dropped dramatically following warning letters from the FDA. The introduction of an FDA-approved probiotic may further expand administration.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Samantha J Wala
- Center for Perinatal Research, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, OH, USA
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Mecklin V Ragan
- Center for Perinatal Research, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, OH, USA
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, OH, USA
| | | | | | - Karen A Diefenbach
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Gail E Besner
- Center for Perinatal Research, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, OH, USA.
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, OH, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Kruth SS, Willers C, Persad E, Sjöström ES, Lagerström SR, Rakow A. Probiotic supplementation and risk of necrotizing enterocolitis and mortality among extremely preterm infants-the Probiotics in Extreme Prematurity in Scandinavia (PEPS) trial: study protocol for a multicenter, double-blinded, placebo-controlled, and registry-based randomized controlled trial. Trials 2024; 25:259. [PMID: 38610034 PMCID: PMC11015611 DOI: 10.1186/s13063-024-08088-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2023] [Accepted: 04/02/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Extremely preterm infants, defined as those born before 28 weeks' gestational age, are a very vulnerable patient group at high risk for adverse outcomes, such as necrotizing enterocolitis and death. Necrotizing enterocolitis is an inflammatory gastrointestinal disease with high incidence in this cohort and has severe implications on morbidity and mortality. Previous randomized controlled trials have shown reduced incidence of necrotizing enterocolitis among older preterm infants following probiotic supplementation. However, these trials were underpowered for extremely preterm infants, rendering evidence for probiotic supplementation in this population insufficient to date. METHODS The Probiotics in Extreme Prematurity in Scandinavia (PEPS) trial is a multicenter, double-blinded, placebo-controlled and registry-based randomized controlled trial conducted among extremely preterm infants (n = 1620) born at six tertiary neonatal units in Sweden and four units in Denmark. Enrolled infants will be allocated to receive either probiotic supplementation with ProPrems® (Bifidobacterium infantis, Bifidobacterium lactis, and Streptococcus thermophilus) diluted in 3 mL breastmilk or placebo (0.5 g maltodextrin powder) diluted in 3 mL breastmilk per day until gestational week 34. The primary composite outcome is incidence of necrotizing enterocolitis and/or mortality. Secondary outcomes include incidence of late-onset sepsis, length of hospitalization, use of antibiotics, feeding tolerance, growth, and body composition at age of full-term and 3 months corrected age after hospital discharge. DISCUSSION Current recommendations for probiotic supplementation in Sweden and Denmark do not include extremely preterm infants due to lack of evidence in this population. However, this young subgroup is notably the most at risk for experiencing adverse outcomes. This trial aims to investigate the effects of probiotic supplementation on necrotizing enterocolitis, death, and other relevant outcomes to provide sufficiently powered, high-quality evidence to inform probiotic supplementation guidelines in this population. The results could have implications for clinical practice both in Sweden and Denmark and worldwide. TRIAL REGISTRATION ( Clinicaltrials.gov ): NCT05604846.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sofia Söderquist Kruth
- Women's Health and Allied Health Professional Theme, Karolinska University Hospital, Solna, 17176, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Karolinska Institutet, 17177, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Carl Willers
- Department of Neurobiology, Care Sciences and Society, Karolinska Institutet, 14152, Huddinge, Sweden
| | - Emma Persad
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Karolinska Institutet, 17177, Stockholm, Sweden
| | | | - Susanne Rautiainen Lagerström
- Department of Global Public Health, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- K2 Medicin, Solna, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Alexander Rakow
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Karolinska Institutet, 17177, Stockholm, Sweden.
- Department of Neonatology, Karolinska University Hospital, Solna, 17176, Stockholm, Sweden.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Xie YL, Lai SH, Liu SJ, Xiu WL. Risk factors of necrotizing enterocolitis in twin preterm infants. BMC Pediatr 2024; 24:210. [PMID: 38521896 PMCID: PMC10960427 DOI: 10.1186/s12887-024-04701-6] [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: 10/07/2023] [Accepted: 03/11/2024] [Indexed: 03/25/2024] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE This study was aimed to investigate the risk factors of necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) in twin preterm infants. METHODS The clinical data of 67 pairs of twin preterm infants admitted to the neonatal department of our hospital from January 2010 to December 2021 were retrospectively collected. One of the twins had NEC (Bell II and above) and the other twin without NEC. They were divided into NEC group and control group according to whether NEC occurred or not. RESULTS Univariate analysis showed that NEC was associated with congenital heart disease, small for gestational age, mild asphyxia at birth and feeding intolerance (P < 0.05). CONCLUSION Occurrence of NEC was associated with congenital heart disease, small for gestational age, and asphyxia at birth. For twin preterm infants with congenital heart disease, small for gestational age, or asphyxia at birth, special attention should be paid to the occurrence of NEC to minimize and avoid the occurrence of NEC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ying-Ling Xie
- Department of Neonatology, Fujian Maternity and Child Health Hospital College of Clinical Medicine for Obstetrics & Gynecology and Pediatrics, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, China
| | - Shu-Hua Lai
- Department of Neonatology, Fujian Maternity and Child Health Hospital College of Clinical Medicine for Obstetrics & Gynecology and Pediatrics, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, China
| | - Su-Jia Liu
- Department of Neonatology, Fujian Maternity and Child Health Hospital College of Clinical Medicine for Obstetrics & Gynecology and Pediatrics, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, China
| | - Wen-Long Xiu
- Department of Neonatology, Fujian Maternity and Child Health Hospital College of Clinical Medicine for Obstetrics & Gynecology and Pediatrics, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, China.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Mohammed C, Fuego JP, Garcia KV, Jamil H, Rajesh RY, Escobar AS, Hassan MJ, Rai M. A Mini Literature Review of Probiotics: Transforming Gastrointestinal Health Through Evidence-Based Insights. Cureus 2024; 16:e57055. [PMID: 38681263 PMCID: PMC11051678 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.57055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/27/2024] [Indexed: 05/01/2024] Open
Abstract
As our understanding of the intricate interaction between gut bacteria and human health continues to expand, so too has interest in the ability of probiotics to manage gut microbiota and confer multiple health benefits to the host. The mini literature review focuses on the expanding potential of the use of probiotics in GI health, with a focus on probiotics' potential therapeutic advantages in a variety of gastrointestinal (GI) illnesses. Probiotics play a significant role in managing diarrhea and symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome with diarrhea (IBS-D) by modulating gut microbial communities. Specific probiotic strains have been found to reduce the abundance of harmful bacteria, regulate inflammatory markers like interleukin 6, and improve GI symptoms such as abdominal discomfort and stool consistency. Additionally, probiotic blends have shown potential for preventing GI infections and alleviating GI pain in IBS-D patients. Studies have demonstrated that certain multi-strain probiotics, including Bifidobacterium and Lactobacillus species, can significantly increase the frequency of bowel movements and reduce the proportion of individuals experiencing constipation. It has also been found that probiotic supplementation may reduce the incidence of postoperative complications and mortality, particularly in patients undergoing colorectal adenocarcinoma surgery. Additionally, probiotics have been associated with decreased levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines and improved clinical outcomes in patients with colorectal cancer. Furthermore, probiotics have been associated with enhanced digestive tolerance, reduced GI inflammation, and prolonged clinical remission in certain UC patients. Studies have also shown that probiotics, administered either directly to infants or pregnant women during the perinatal stage, can alleviate symptoms such as inconsolable crying and irritation associated with infant colic, improve bowel movement frequency in cases of functional constipation, and enhance overall conditions in premature infants, including reducing regurgitation and improving feeding tolerance. The review addresses both encouraging results and challenges with probiotic therapy, while also arguing for more studies to elucidate underlying mechanisms and enhance therapeutic techniques. As we traverse the complex field of probiotic therapy in the treatment of GI illnesses, researchers, physicians, and other healthcare professionals can benefit from the informative information provided by this study.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Cara Mohammed
- Orthopedics, East Regional Health Authority, Port of Spain, TTO
| | - Jhon P Fuego
- Internal Medicine, West Visayas State University College of Medicine, Iloilo City, PHL
| | - Karina V Garcia
- Internal Medicine, National Autonomous University of Mexico, Mexico City, MEX
| | - Hira Jamil
- Medicine, University Medical and Dental College Faisalabad, Faisalabad, PAK
| | - Rahul Y Rajesh
- Internal Medicine, Tbilisi State Medical University, Tbilisi, GEO
| | | | | | - Manju Rai
- Immunology, Shri Venkateshwara University, Gajraula, IND
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Wang X, Li L, Liu T, Shi Y. More than nutrition: Therapeutic potential and mechanism of human milk oligosaccharides against necrotizing enterocolitis. Life Sci 2024; 339:122420. [PMID: 38218534 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2024.122420] [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: 10/22/2023] [Revised: 12/31/2023] [Accepted: 01/08/2024] [Indexed: 01/15/2024]
Abstract
Human milk is the most valuable source of nutrition for infants. The structure and function of human milk oligosaccharides (HMOs), which are key components of human milk, have long been attracting particular research interest. Several recent studies have found HMOs to be efficacious in the prevention and treatment of necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC). Additionally, they could be developed in the future as non-invasive predictive markers for NEC. Based on previous findings and the well-defined functions of HMOs, we summarize potential protective mechanisms of HMOs against neonatal NEC, which include: modulating signal receptor function, promoting intestinal epithelial cell proliferation, reducing apoptosis, restoring intestinal blood perfusion, regulating microbial prosperity, and alleviating intestinal inflammation. HMOs supplementation has been demonstrated to be protective against NEC in both animal studies and clinical observations. This calls for mass production and use of HMOs in infant formula, necessitating more research into the safety of industrially produced HMOs and the appropriate dosage in infant formula.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xinru Wang
- Department of Pediatrics, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, No. 36, San Hao Street, Heping District, Shenyang, Liaoning 110004, China
| | - Ling Li
- Department of Pediatrics, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, No. 36, San Hao Street, Heping District, Shenyang, Liaoning 110004, China
| | - Tianjing Liu
- Department of Pediatrics, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, No. 36, San Hao Street, Heping District, Shenyang, Liaoning 110004, China.
| | - Yongyan Shi
- Department of Pediatrics, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, No. 36, San Hao Street, Heping District, Shenyang, Liaoning 110004, China.
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Heston SM, Lim CSE, Ong C, Chua MC, Kelly MS, Yeo KT. Strain-resolved metagenomic analysis of the gut as a reservoir for bloodstream infection pathogens among premature infants in Singapore. Gut Pathog 2023; 15:55. [PMID: 37974294 PMCID: PMC10652614 DOI: 10.1186/s13099-023-00583-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2023] [Accepted: 11/08/2023] [Indexed: 11/19/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Gut dysbiosis contributes to the high risk of bloodstream infection (BSI) among premature infants. Most prior studies of the premature infant gut microbiota were conducted in Western countries and prior to development of current tools for strain-resolved analysis. METHODS We performed metagenomic sequencing of weekly fecal samples from 75 premature infants at a single hospital in Singapore. We evaluated associations between clinical factors and gut microbiota composition using PERMANOVA and mixed effects linear regression. We used inStrain to perform strain-level analyses evaluating for gut colonization by BSI-causing strains. RESULTS Median (interquartile range) gestation was 27 (25, 29) weeks, and 63% of infants were born via Cesarean section. Antibiotic exposures (PERMANOVA; R2 = 0.017, p = 0.001) and postnatal age (R2 = 0.015, p = 0.001) accounted for the largest amount of variability in gut microbiota composition. Increasing postnatal age was associated with higher relative abundances of several common pathogens (Enterococcus faecalis: p < 0.0001; Escherichia coli: p < 0.0001; Klebsiella aerogenes: p < 0.0001; Klebsiella pneumoniae: p < 0.0001). Antibiotic exposures were generally associated with lower relative abundances of both frequently beneficial bacteria (e.g., Bifidobacterium species) and common enteric pathogens (e.g., Enterobacter, Klebsiella species). We identified strains identical to the blood culture isolate in fecal samples from 12 of 16 (75%) infants who developed BSI, including all infections caused by typical enteric bacteria. CONCLUSIONS Antibiotic exposures were the dominant modifiable factor affecting gut microbiota composition in a large cohort of premature infants from South-East Asia. Strain-resolved analyses indicate that the gut is an important reservoir for organisms causing BSI among premature infants.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sarah M Heston
- Division of Pediatric Infectious Diseases, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Charis Shu En Lim
- Department of Neonatology, KK Women's and Children's Hospital, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Chengsi Ong
- Department of Neonatology, KK Women's and Children's Hospital, Singapore, Singapore
- Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore, Singapore
- Department of Nutrition and Dietetics, KK Women's and Children's Hospital, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Mei Chien Chua
- Department of Neonatology, KK Women's and Children's Hospital, Singapore, Singapore
- Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Matthew S Kelly
- Division of Pediatric Infectious Diseases, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Kee Thai Yeo
- Department of Neonatology, KK Women's and Children's Hospital, Singapore, Singapore.
- Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore, Singapore.
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Men G, Wang L, Lu X, Wen G, Lü Q. Can Enterococcus faecium prevent NEC in preterm infants?: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Medicine (Baltimore) 2023; 102:e34787. [PMID: 37565851 PMCID: PMC10419755 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000034787] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2023] [Accepted: 07/26/2023] [Indexed: 08/12/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Previous some systematic reviews reported that probiotics may benefit the prevention of NEC in preterm infants. But dissimilar bacterial strains and taxa used in included studies possibly result in bias. There is not a rounded systematic review which has estimated the benefit and safety of Enterococcus faecium to prevent NEC in preterm infants to date before we conducted. METHODS This systematic review of randomized controlled trials and retrospective studies analyzing the benefit of Enterococcus faecium to prevent NEC in preterm infants was performed using PubMed, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, EMBASE, Wanfang data and China National Knowledge Infrastructure databases from inception to April 14, 2023. The search terms were "preterm" AND "necrotizing enterocolitis" AND "Enterococcus faecium OR probiotics." Studies reporting NEC involving preterm infants who were given Enterococcus faecium were included in this systematic review. A sensitivity analysis was conducted to assess the stability of results. A funnel plot was generated to identify publication bias. Two authors appraised studies quality and extracted data independently. This work has been reported according with preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses and assessing the methodological quality of systematic reviews. Statistical analysis was conducted using Review Manager 5.3 software. Risk ratio (RR) with 95% confidence intervals (CI) was calculated and analyzed. RESULTS Seven studies (N = 1487 participants) were included in this systematic review, and 6 randomized, controlled trials (N = 1237 participants) were included in the meta-analysis. Comparing with the control groups, the Enterococcus faecium groups had a significant decline in the incidence of NEC Bell stage II or higher (RR: 0.3138, 95% CI: 0.1983-0.4965; P < .00001; 6 studies, n = 1237) and infection (RR: 0.4818, 95% CI: 0.2950-0.7869; P = .004; 3 studies, n = 710). CONCLUSIONS Enterococcus faecium is effective and safe in preventing NEC (Bell stage II or higher) in preterm infants. But all studies included came from China. The dosages and durations of taking Enterococcus faecium were various.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Guangguo Men
- Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, Ningbo Women and Children’s Hospital, Ningbo, China
| | - Lili Wang
- Department of Neonatology, Dong’e Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Liaocheng, Shandong, China
| | - Xudan Lu
- Department of Neonatology, Ningbo Women and Children’s Hospital, Ningbo, China
| | - Gang Wen
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Ningbo Women and Children’s Hospital, Ningbo, China
| | - Qin Lü
- Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, Ningbo Women and Children’s Hospital, Ningbo, China
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Luo Z, Chen A, Xie A, Liu X, Jiang S, Yu R. Limosilactobacillus reuteri in immunomodulation: molecular mechanisms and potential applications. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1228754. [PMID: 37638038 PMCID: PMC10450031 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1228754] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2023] [Accepted: 07/18/2023] [Indexed: 08/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Frequent use of hormones and drugs may be associated with side-effects. Recent studies have shown that probiotics have effects on the prevention and treatment of immune-related diseases. Limosilactobacillus reuteri (L. reuteri) had regulatory effects on intestinal microbiota, host epithelial cells, immune cells, cytokines, antibodies (Ab), toll-like receptors (TLRs), tryptophan (Try) metabolism, antioxidant enzymes, and expression of related genes, and exhibits antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effects, leading to alleviation of disease symptoms. Although the specific composition of the cell-free supernatant (CFS) of L. reuteri has not been clarified, its efficacy in animal models has drawn increased attention to its potential use. This review summarizes the effects of L. reuteri on intestinal flora and immune regulation, and discusses the feasibility of its application in atopic dermatitis (AD), asthma, necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC), systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), rheumatoid arthritis (RA), and multiple sclerosis (MS), and provides insights for the prevention and treatment of immune-related diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zichen Luo
- Department of Neonatology, Women’s Hospital of Jiangnan University, Wuxi Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital, Wuxi, China
| | - Ailing Chen
- Research Institute for Reproductive Health and Genetic Diseases, Women’s Hospital of Jiangnan University, Wuxi Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital, Wuxi, China
| | - Anni Xie
- Department of Neonatology, Women’s Hospital of Jiangnan University, Wuxi Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital, Wuxi, China
| | - Xueying Liu
- Research Institute for Reproductive Health and Genetic Diseases, Women’s Hospital of Jiangnan University, Wuxi Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital, Wuxi, China
| | - Shanyu Jiang
- Department of Neonatology, Women’s Hospital of Jiangnan University, Wuxi Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital, Wuxi, China
| | - Renqiang Yu
- Department of Neonatology, Women’s Hospital of Jiangnan University, Wuxi Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital, Wuxi, China
- Research Institute for Reproductive Health and Genetic Diseases, Women’s Hospital of Jiangnan University, Wuxi Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital, Wuxi, China
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
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] [Key Words] [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.
Collapse
Key Words
- female
- humans
- infant
- infant, newborn
- enterocolitis, necrotizing
- enterocolitis, necrotizing/epidemiology
- fetal growth retardation
- infant, extremely premature
- infant, premature, diseases
- infant, premature, diseases/etiology
- infant, premature, diseases/prevention & control
- infant, very low birth weight
- probiotics
Collapse
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
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Thomas D, Sharma A, Sankar MJ. Probiotics for the prevention of mortality and sepsis in preterm very low birth weight neonates from low- and middle-income countries: a Bayesian network meta-analysis. Front Nutr 2023; 10:1133293. [PMID: 37388635 PMCID: PMC10300419 DOI: 10.3389/fnut.2023.1133293] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2022] [Accepted: 05/19/2023] [Indexed: 07/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Probiotics have been shown to reduce the risk of mortality and necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) in very low birth weight (VLBW) neonates. The probiotic species with the maximal benefits in neonates from low- and middle-income countries are unknown. Objective To identify the strain of probiotics with the maximum benefit in preventing neonatal mortality, sepsis, and NEC using the Bayesian network meta-analysis. Search methods We searched Medline via PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL). We also hand-searched reference lists of previous systematic reviews to identify eligible studies. Selection criteria Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) from LMICs comparing enteral supplementation of one or more probiotics with another probiotic species or placebo were included. Data collection and analysis Two authors screened the studies, extracted the data, and examined the risk of bias using the Cochrane risk of bias 2 (RoB 2) tools. Bayesian network meta-analysis was performed using the "BUGSnet" package in R and RStudio (version 1.4.1103). The confidence in the findings was assessed using the Confidence in Network Meta-analysis (CINeMA) web application. Results Twenty-nine RCTs enrolling 4,906 neonates and evaluating 24 probiotics were included. Only 11 (38%) studies had a low risk of bias. All the studies compared the probiotics with a placebo; none had a head-to-head comparison of different probiotic species. Also, only one study each had evaluated most probiotic regimens. When compared to placebo, the combination of B longum, B bifidum, B infantis, and L acidophilus may reduce the risk of mortality (relative risk [RR] 0.26; 95% credible interval [CrI] 0.07 to 0.72), sepsis (RR 0.47; 95% CrI 0.25 to 0.83), and NEC (RR 0.31; 95% CrI 0.10 to 0.78) but the evidence is very uncertain. There is low certainty evidence that the single probiotic species, B lactis, could reduce the risk of mortality (RR 0.21; 0.05 to 0.66) and NEC (RR 0.09; 0.01 to 0.32). Conclusion Given the low to very low certainty of evidence for the efficacy of the two probiotics found to reduce mortality and necrotizing enterocolitis, no firm conclusions can be made on the optimal probiotics for use in preterm neonates in low- and middle-income countries. Systematic review registration https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?ID=CRD42022353242, identifier: CRD42022353242.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Deena Thomas
- Department of Pediatrics, Muthoot Hospitals, Kozhencherry, Kerala, India
| | - Akash Sharma
- Department of Pediatrics, Sir Padampat Institute of Neonatology and Pediatric Health (SPINPH), SMS Medical College, Jaipur, India
| | - M. Jeeva Sankar
- Department of Pediatrics, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Sajankila N, Wala SJ, Ragan MV, Volpe SG, Dumbauld Z, Purayil N, Mihi B, Besner GE. Current and future methods of probiotic therapy for necrotizing enterocolitis. Front Pediatr 2023; 11:1120459. [PMID: 36937955 PMCID: PMC10017871 DOI: 10.3389/fped.2023.1120459] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2022] [Accepted: 01/31/2023] [Indexed: 03/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) is a complex intestinal disease that primarily affects premature neonates. Given its significant mortality and morbidity, there is an urgent need to develop improved prophylactic measures against the disease. One potential preventative strategy for NEC is the use of probiotics. Although there has been significant interest for decades in probiotics in neonatal care, no clear guidelines exist regarding which probiotic to use or for which patients, and no FDA-approved products exist on the market for NEC. In addition, there is lack of agreement regarding the benefits of probiotics in neonates, as well as some concerns about the safety and efficacy of available products. We discuss currently available probiotics as well as next-generation probiotics and novel delivery strategies which may offer an avenue to capitalize on the benefits of probiotics, while minimizing the risks. Thus, probiotics may still prove to be an effective prevention strategy for NEC, although further product development and research is needed to support use in the preterm population.
Collapse
|
12
|
Xiong J, Liao XS, Yin T, Liu XC, Bao L, Li LQ. Alterations of the gut microbiota and short chain fatty acids in necrotizing enterocolitis and food protein-induced allergic protocolitis infants: A prospective cohort study. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2022; 12:1030588. [PMID: 36478672 PMCID: PMC9720398 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2022.1030588] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2022] [Accepted: 11/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Even though presenting with similar clinical manifestations, necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) and food protein-induced allergic protocolitis (FPIAP) have completely different treatments and prognosis. Our study aimed to quantify and evaluate differences in gut microbiota and short chain fatty acids (SCFAs) between infants with NEC and FPIAP to better identify these two diseases in clinical settings. Methods A total of 43 infants with NEC or FPIAP in Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, China between December 2020 and December 2021 were enrolled. Stool samples were prospectively collected and froze. Infants defined as NEC were those who presented with clinical courses consistent with NEC and whose radiographs fulfilled criteria for Bell's stage 2 or 3 NEC, while those who were healthy in appearance and had blood in the stool (visible or may be microscopic), had normal bowel sounds in physical examination, were resolved after eliminating the causative food, and/or had recurrence of symptoms after oral food challenge (OFC) were defined as FPIAP. Primers specific for bacterial 16S rRNA genes were used to amplify and pyrosequence fecal DNA from stool samples. Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) technology was used to determine the concentrations of SCFAs. Results Among the 43 infants, 22 were diagnosed with NEC and 21 were diagnosed with FPIAP. The microbial community structure in NEC infant stools differed significantly from those in FPIAP infant stools. NEC infants had significantly higher proportion of Actinobacteria and reduced proportion of Bacteroidetes compared with FPIAP infants, and the proportions of Halomonas, Acinetobacter, Bifidobacterium, and Stenotrophomonas in NEC infants were significantly higher than that of FPIAP infants. In addition, infants with NEC had significantly lower levels of acetic acid, propionic acid, butyric acid, isovaleric acid, and total SCFAs, and higher level of hexanoic acid as compared to the infants of the FPIAP group. Conclusions The differences of gut microbiota composition and concentrations of SCFAs might represent suitable biomarker targets for early identification of NEC and FPIAP.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jing Xiong
- Neonatal Diagnosis and Treatment Center of Children’s Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health and Disorders, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Child Development and Critical Disorders, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Pediatric, Chongqing, China
| | - Xing-Sheng Liao
- Department of Neonatology, The first People’s Hospital of Jiulongpo District, Chongqing, China
| | - Tong Yin
- Neonatal Diagnosis and Treatment Center of Children’s Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health and Disorders, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Child Development and Critical Disorders, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Pediatric, Chongqing, China
| | - Xiao-Chen Liu
- Neonatal Diagnosis and Treatment Center of Children’s Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health and Disorders, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Child Development and Critical Disorders, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Pediatric, Chongqing, China
| | - Lei Bao
- Neonatal Diagnosis and Treatment Center of Children’s Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health and Disorders, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Child Development and Critical Disorders, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Pediatric, Chongqing, China,*Correspondence: Lei Bao, ; Lu-Quan Li,
| | - Lu-Quan Li
- Neonatal Diagnosis and Treatment Center of Children’s Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health and Disorders, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Child Development and Critical Disorders, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Pediatric, Chongqing, China,*Correspondence: Lei Bao, ; Lu-Quan Li,
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Sowden M, van Niekerk E, Bulabula ANH, Twisk J, van Weissenbruch MM. Effect of a Multi-Strain Probiotic on Growth and Time to Reach Full Feeds in Preterm Neonates. Nutrients 2022; 14:nu14214658. [PMID: 36364919 PMCID: PMC9659223 DOI: 10.3390/nu14214658] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2022] [Revised: 10/24/2022] [Accepted: 11/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: The main nutritional goal for premature neonates is to achieve a postnatal growth rate that the neonate would have experienced in utero. Postnatal growth failure is, however, very common in very and extremely low birth weight neonates. The use of probiotics shows promising results in reducing the time for full feeds, as well as in increased weight gain. The optimal probiotic strain has, however, not been elucidated. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the difference in the growth and time to reach full feeds between the two treatment arms, using LabinicTM as a multi-strain probiotic and a placebo. Methods: We conducted a double-blind, placebo-controlled, randomized clinical trial investigating the effect of a multi strain probiotic (LabinicTM) on various outcomes in preterm neonates. The results on the time to reach full feeds and the growth will be discussed in this paper. A probiotic or placebo was given once daily to the neonates for 28 days. Weight and feeding volume were measured daily, and length and head circumference were measured weekly. Results: The probiotic group reached full feeds earlier 8.7 days; ± 2.0 than the placebo group 9.7 days; ±4.3 (p = 0.04) and regained their birthweight earlier than the placebo group 11.5 days ± 6.3 vs. 13.3 days ± 6.3 (p = 0.06). From day 21 onwards, the probiotic group showed a significantly greater crude gain in weight (p < 0.001) than the placebo group (estimated difference between the two groups day 21: 56.7 g and at day 28: 83.7 g. There was a significant improvement observed in the weight Z-score change in the probiotic group over the 28-day period. Conclusion: The use of a multi-strain probiotic (LabinicTM) shows great potential as a low-cost, low-risk intervention in reducing the time to reach full feeds as well as shortening the time to regain birthweight. The probiotic had an additional beneficial impact on Z-score change in weight potentially decreasing post-natal growth restriction.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marwyn Sowden
- Division of Human Nutrition, Department of Global Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town 8000, South Africa
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +27-21-938-9474
| | - Evette van Niekerk
- Division of Human Nutrition, Department of Global Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town 8000, South Africa
| | | | - Jos Twisk
- Department of Epidemiology and Data Science, Amsterdam UMC, 1081 HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Mirjam Maria van Weissenbruch
- Amsterdam UMC, Department of Pediatrics-Neonatology, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, 1081 HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|