Early-life gut microbiota and neurodevelopment in preterm infants: any role for Bifidobacterium?

Abstract

Our data might pave the way for future in-depth studies focusing on the potential impact of bifidobacteria or specific microbiota patterns on neonatal neurodevelopment and lay the foundation for microbiome-based clinical practices to modulate altered profiles and improve long-term health. • Preterm infants are at increased risk for adverse neurological outcomes and gut microbiota dysbiosis. • The gut microbiota and the nervous system share critical developmental windows in early life. • The absence of Bifidobacterium at 30 days of life in preterm infants is associated with neurodevelopmental impairment in early childhood. • The administration of Bifidobacterium strains could promote optimal neurocognitive development in fragile infants.