The Science Journal of the Lander College of Arts and Sciences
Abstract
The development of new DNA sequencing techniques has led to new discoveries on the gut microbiome’s critical influence on metabolic processes and immune development. Therefore, understanding the most influential factors in the development of the gut microbiome during early infancy, which impacts the individual’s long-term health, is vital. This paper explores how environmental factors, including delivery method and nutrition, shape the gut microbiome’s devel- opment in early life. In addition, it discusses their long-term health implications. The paper highlights how the mode of delivery significantly affects initial microbial colonization. Vaginal births promote a microbial community that is rich in beneficial bacteria like Bifidobacterium. In contrast, C-section deliveries often lead to a microbiome resembling skin flora, which may predispose infants to dysbiosis and subsequent health issues like asthma and obesity. Furthermore, breastfeeding enhances the establishment of a healthy microbiome compared to formula feeding. This is due to the presence of prebiotics and immunoglobulins that support beneficial bacteria growth. The paper also emphasizes the effects of antibiotic exposure on the infant gut microbiome. This can result in reduced microbial diversity, altered metabolic functions, and an increased risk of antibiotic-resistant infections. In contrast, prebiotics and probiotics are found to mitigate dysbiosis and promote a healthy gut microbiome. More research is necessary to establish the long-term health outcomes of neonatal exposure to antibiotics, prebiotics, and probiotics. To better understand the connection between dysbiosis and specific diseases, future research should investigate the mech- anisms by which environmental factors shape the microbiome and their long-term health implications. Ultimately, this study underscores the importance of understanding these factors to promote optimal gut health in infants, potentially mitigating risks associated with dysbiosis and related disorders.
Recommended Citation
Roza Heershzon. (2025). Which of the Environmental Aspects Affecting the Gut Microbiome of the Neonate Has the Largest Lifelong Impact?. The Science Journal of the Lander College of Arts and Sciences, 18(2), 28-37. Retrieved from https://touroscholar.touro.edu/sjlcas/vol18/iss2/4
