Pediatr. praxi. 2025;26(1):27-32 | DOI: 10.36290/ped.2025.006

Importance and risks of enterobacteria for healthy development of newborn gut microbiota

Ing. Jan Vinkler¹, Ing. Nikol Modráčková, Ph.D.¹, MUDr. Peter Korček, Ph.D.², prof. MUDr. Zbyněk Straňák, CSc., MBA², doc. Ing. Věra Neužil Bunešová, Ph.D.¹

¹ Katedra mikrobiologie, výživy a dietetiky, Česká zemědělská univerzita v Praze, Praha-Suchdol

² Ústav pro péči o matku dítě, Praha

The gut microbiome plays a key role in a person's long-term physical and psychological health. Its appropriate composition during the initial colonization of the gastrointestinal tract of newborns with the sufficient representation of the taxa with commensal or probiotic potential is essential for defence against infections and proper development of the immune system. Enterobacteria form an integral part of the intestinal microbiota and play a vital role in the initial colonization of the newborn gut. At the same time, these are potential pathogens that can cause serious infections. This article describes the functions of enterobacteria in the microbiota of infants, the risks associated with their excessive presence, and strategies for preventing infections. Furthermore, factors affecting microbiota formation in children are discussed, including the delivery method and the effect of antibiotics. Research shows that promoting natural childbirth, breastfeeding, and probiotic use can positively influence the gut microbiota and eliminate potential risks associated with enterobacteria. The article provides an overview of current knowledge about enterobacteria in the microbiota of infants and highlights the need for further research and the sharing of new knowledge in clinical practice to ensure the healthy development of children.

Keywords: enterobacteria, newborn microbiome, infant infections, immune system, initial colonisation, antibiotic resistance.

Accepted: March 6, 2025; Published: March 19, 2025  Show citation