Gut Rebalancing Acts: evaluating the role of prebiotics in the recovery of antibiotic-perturbed infant gut microbiota

Summary

The microbial colonization of the infant gut
plays a key role in human health, but early antibiotic exposure may disrupt
this balance, potentially leading to future health risks. To mitigate these
effects and promote gut microbiota recovery, dietary modulation, specifically
through prebiotic supplementation, offers a promising approach. This PhD
research investigates the influence of prebiotics in the diet on the recovery
of antibiotic-perturbed infant gut microbiota. Prebiotics, compounds that
promote the growth of beneficial bacteria, are the focus, particularly
non-digestible carbohydrates (NDCs). Using an in vitro colon model, the
research explores how NDCs influence the resilience of infant gut microbiota
following antibiotic disruptions. This research highlights promising mitigation
strategies aimed at enhancing the growth of beneficial bacteria in the infant
gut during the recovery phase after antibiotic disruption, potentially
safeguarding future health outcomes.