Myelination in both the central nervous system (CNS) and peripheral nervous system is critical in regulating motor, sensory and cognitive functions. Neonatal dysbiosis can potentially alter myelination through an incorrect immune response and neuronal differentiation. The use of antibiotics in children (Abx) is enormous and it is hypothesized that neonatal Abx induces dysbiosis and, by dysregulating the host-microbiota interaction, alters myelination in the brain and the gut-brain axis. Abx administration was tested in neonatal mice or vehicle (water) from the age of 7 days until weaning (gg23) to induce dysbiosis and then evaluated at 6-8 weeks of age. Abx leads to dysbiosis in adult mice, impaired intestinal physiology accompanied with altered production of bacterial metabolites and behavioral alterations (cognitive deficits and anxiety). Expression of genes involved in myelination and transcriptional factors were altered in certain regions. Following butyrate administration, Abx mice reestablish proper interstitial homeostasis, behavior, and myelin dysfunction.
Year: 2021
Nationality: USA