It takes a village - the effect of antibiotics and other factors on raising the infant gut microbiota

Summary

As antibiotics are frequently prescribed in infants during a crucial phase in the early development of the intestinal microbiota, this thesis aims to explore relationships between the microbial sources passed between generations and the environment, disruption by early-life AB exposure, factors determining the development of the infant microbiota ecosystem; and impact on later health.

Analyses of the INCA cohort show an impact of early exposure to antibiotics on the intestinal microbiota throughout the first year of life. Microbiota composition and how it is impacted by antibiotics was also affected by delivery and feeding modes. This gut development disruption could explain the disease effects related to antibiotics later in life. We systematically reviewed the literature about the antibiotic effect on gastrointestinal disorders in childhood. We found an association between the microbiota and infantile colics in our cohort. Finally, I also discuss future perspectives for the medical and microbial field.