Gastrointestinal function development and microbiota

Abstract

The intestinal microbiota plays an important role in the development of post-natal gastrointestinal functions of the host. Recent advances in our capability to identify microbes and their function offer exciting opportunities to evaluate the complex cross talk between microbiota, intestinal barrier, immune system and the gut-brain axis. This review summarizes these interactions in the early colonization of gastrointestinal tract with a major focus on the role of intestinal microbiota in the pathogenesis of feeding intolerance in preterm newborn. The potential benefit of early probiotic supplementation opens new perspectives in case of altered intestinal colonization at birth as preventive and therapeutic agents.

Figure 1

Intestinal function and microbiota. Commensal bacteria inhabiting the human intestine participate in the development and maintenance of gut immunologic, sensory and motor functions. Under normal conditions, the gastrointestinal tract provides a stable habitat for commensal bacteria that supports its structural and functional integrity. The ENS influence the gut directly with the activity related to the contraction and indirectly influencing the cells of the gut immune system. The functional bidirectional interaction act via neuroimmune peptide receptor on immune cells and on several receptor for immune mediators expressed on enteric nerves. Immune cells release mediators in response to neural stimuli.