The Effect of Probiotic Supplementation During Pregnancy on Gut Microbiome Colonization of Newborns

Introduction

Probiotics are live microorganisms that may enhance or restore gut microbiota. They are often recommended during pregnancy and infancy for potential benefits, but evidence is inconclusive. This study aimed to investigate probiotic supplementation’s effects on maternal and infant gut and milk microbiota and its link to nutrient intake during pregnancy.

Method

We recruited 23 pregnant women and their infants, assigning them to probiotic or control groups. Probiotic effects were evaluated through fecal and milk microbiota analysis via 16S rRNA gene sequencing. Nutrient intake data were collected to assess differences linked to probiotics. Key microbiota diversity and richness were analyzed using linear discriminant analysis effect size (LEfSe) and weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) to explore associations with diet and sample characteristics. Predictive microbial pathway characteristics were identified using time series analysis, random forest algorithms, and logistic regression models.

Results

The groups had no significant differences in nutrient intake, and gut and milk microbiota richness and diversity remained unchanged. LEfSe identified key genera differing between groups, likely due to probiotic intake. WGCNA found microbiota modules linked to dietary intake and sampling conditions. Analysis also revealed predictive genus clusters affected by probiotics, showing substantial predictive capability.

Conclusion

This study suggests a potential link between probiotic supplementation and changes in maternal and infant microbiota, offering insights into health resilience during pregnancy. These results highlight the complex interactions between probiotics, diet, and microbiota, suggesting that probiotics may support maternal and infant health.