Ecological Drivers and Successional Dynamics of the Neonatal Gut Microbiome: From Birth Mode to Pioneer Species Colonization

The establishment of the neonatal gut microbiome is a critical ecological succession event with profound implications for infant health and long-term physiological programming. This review synthesizes current evidence on the primary ecological drivers, predominantly birth mode, maternal microbiome transmission, antibiotic exposure, and feeding practices, that shape the initial colonization and subsequent assembly of the infant gut microbiota. We discuss the ongoing paradigm shift from the traditional sterile womb hypothesis toward potential in utero microbial exposures, while highlighting how cesarean section (C-Section) disrupts vertical transmission of maternal vaginal and intestinal microbes. This disruption leads to dysbiosis characterized by reduced pioneer colonizers like Bifidobacterium and Lactobacillus and an increased abundance of opportunistic pathogens. Furthermore, we examine the role of maternal factors (diet, BMI, antibiotic use, and pregnancy complications) and postnatal interventions, including breastfeeding and probiotic supplementation, in modulating this early ecosystem. Understanding these dynamics within an ecological framework is essential for developing strategies to mitigate dysbiosis associated risks such as immune dysregulation, sepsis and metabolic or allergic disorders.

کلیدواژه ها:

Neonatal Gut Microbiome ، Birth Mode ، Ecological Succession ، Dysbiosis ، Pioneer Species