Early gut microbiota composition ő a possible target to reduce the risk of developing neuropsychiatric disorders? (637.11)

Abstract

Background: Although genetic factors can determine a propensity for neuropsychiatric disorders, environmental exposures, particularly early microbial contact, may shape the risk during a critical period of maturation.Objective: To address whether early gut microbiota composition and its modification by probiotics could be related to the increasing emergence of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and Asperger syndrome (AS).Methods: 75 infants who were randomized to receive Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG (ATCC 53103) or placebo prenatally and during the first six months of life were followed‐up for 13 years. Gut microbiota was assessed at the age of 3 weeks, 3 and 6 months and 13 years using several molecular methods. ADHD and AS were diagnosed by a child neurologist or psychiatrist on the basis of ICD‐10 diagnostic criteria.Results: At the age of 13 years ADHD and/or AS was diagnosed in 6/35 (17.1%) children in the placebo and none in the probiotic group (p=0.008). The affected children manifested lower numbers of Bifidobacterium species bacteria in feces, in particular less Bifidobacterium longum, than healthy children during the first six months of life (p=0.03, p=0.045, respectively).Interpretation: The composition of the gut microbiota and probiotic supplementation early in life may have an impact on the development of neuropsychiatric disorders later in childhood; our preliminary study suggests both an intriguing link between gut microbiota and behavior and a potential treatment target.Grant Funding Source: Supported by the Academy of Finland