A recent study carried out by a team of researchers from the International University of Valencia (VIU), in collaboration with the neonatology service of the Hospital Clínic-Maternitat in Barcelona, has yielded new and promising results on the use of probiotics in the development of premature newborns. Led by Dr. Vicente Andreu and Dr. Elisabet Navarro, this pioneering project evaluates the effects of the administration of probiotics on the neurodevelopment of these babies at two years of age, with special attention to its impact on mortality, length of hospital stay and late sepsis, one of the main causes of morbidity in this population, especially between the first week and three months of life.
The research focused on newborns born before the 32nd week of gestation and weighing less than 1.5 kilograms, a group that usually presents an intestinal imbalance. To reverse this dysbiosis, the team administered a mixture of Bifidobacterium bifidum and Lactobacillus acidophilus 109 neonates received the probiotic treatment, while 124 others did not receive the probiotic treatment. All participants were followed for two years and underwent cognitive, motor and language tests. In addition, key data were collected on conditions such as necrotizing enterocolitis and retinopathy, as well as the length of hospital stay.
The results could not have been more encouraging. The probiotic mixture administered showed a “significant positive impact on language development” in newborns, compared to the control group. This finding is especially relevant, given that premature babies are at considerable risk of developing neurocognitive problems. According to Dr. Elisabet Navarro, “This is the first study to demonstrate that certain probiotic mixtures can benefit the neurodevelopment of premature newborns, as well as reduce their stay in the ICU.” In addition, the incidence of late sepsis was significantly lower in the probiotic group (7%) compared to the control group (16%), and the stay in the intensive care unit was reduced by almost half.
After administering probiotics, a significant positive impact on language development, a notable reduction in the incidence of late sepsis and fewer neurocognitive deficiencies were observed.
A key aspect that researchers highlight is the relationship between gut microbiota and brain development. Premature neonates tend to have an imbalance in gut microbiota, known as dysbiosis, which makes them more vulnerable to infections and complications such as necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) and late-onset sepsis. The administration of probiotics, which are beneficial live microorganisms, has been shown to be effective in restoring a healthy microbiota, reducing inflammation and intestinal pathogens.
Dr. Vicente Andreu stresses the importance of caution when administering probiotics to vulnerable populations: “Although in general a benefit of probiotics has been seen, it is essential to always use strains that have been tested in clinical studies and have passed strict controls for marketing. Not all probiotics are suitable for everything.”
This study, published in Scientific Reports, has been highlighted by the International Probiotics Association (IPA), which has highlighted the relevance of the results and the need to continue researching the use of probiotics in the neonatal setting. The link between the intestinal microbiota and brain development in premature babies remains fertile ground for future research, which may help to optimize treatment and interventions at this delicate stage of life.
Source: International University of Valencia
