Abstract
The gut microbiota is an important regulator for maintaining the organ microenvironment through effects on the gut-vital organs axis. Respiratory tract infections are one of the most widespread and harmful diseases, especially in the last 2 years. Many lines of evidence indicate that the gut microbiota and its metabolites can be considered in therapeutic strategies to effectively prevent and treat respiratory diseases. However, due to the different gut microbiota composition in children compared to adults and the dynamic development of the immature immune system, studies on the interaction between children’s intestinal flora and respiratory infections are still lacking. Here, we describe the changes in the gut microbiota of children with respiratory tract infections and explain the relationship between the microbiota of children with their immune function and disease development. In addition, we will provide perspectives on the direct manipulation of intestinal microbes to prevent or treat pediatric respiratory infections.
Highlights
The intestinal tract is home to about 40 trillion microbiota, and the total number of its genes is about 150 times that of human genes
A recent study found that a small number of premature babies had placentas containing bacteria of the same origin as their mothers’ mouths [25]
The infant gut microbiota shows a rapid increase until 1 year of age
Summary
The intestinal tract is home to about 40 trillion microbiota, and the total number of its genes is about 150 times that of human genes. Given the size of the intestinal flora, it is known as the “second genome”, “second brain”, or “gut brain” of the human body. Compared with the microbiota in other parts of the human body, the intestine contains huge bacterial groups and rich species. It influences other organs and human body functions in diverse ways. It will soon be commonplace to treat various diseases with consideration of the intestinal microbiota
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