Overview
Gut microbiota exists in a symbiotic relationship with the host, carrying an important role in development of the host’s immune, metabolic and brain systems in early life. Capability of gut microbiota in promoting healthy development during childhood mainly depends on its composition.
In recent years, several factors have been identified to influence the composition of an infant’s gut microbiota and that include maternal, infant and environmental factors. One of the most discussed factors is the mode of delivery. Researchers have found that infants delivered by caesarean section have altered gut microbiota and more susceptible to health disorders compared to vaginally delivered infants.
In this course, Associate Professor Christophe Lay and Associate Professor Anne Goh discussed the importance of gut microbiota and the factors affecting the gut microbiota.