A recent study conducted on mice has revealed that the presence of the bacteria Bifidobacterium breve in a mother’s gut during pregnancy can promote healthy brain development in her unborn child.
A recent study conducted on mice has revealed that the presence of the bacteria Bifidobacterium breve in a mother’s gut during pregnancy can promote healthy brain development in her unborn child.
In the research, scientists examined the development of the fetal brain in two groups of mice: one group where the mothers had no gut bacteria, and another where mothers were given Bifidobacterium breve orally during pregnancy and lacked other gut bacteria.
They observed that nutrient transport to the brain improved in the fetuses of mothers who received Bifidobacterium breve, along with positive changes in various cellular processes tied to growth.
Bifidobacterium breve is a type of beneficial bacteria found naturally in our digestive system and is also available in probiotic drinks and tablets.
Obesity and chronic stress can disrupt the gut microbiome of pregnant women, often leading to abnormal fetal growth. It is estimated that up to 10% of first-time mothers experience issues such as low birth weight or fetal growth restriction. When a baby does not grow properly in the womb, they may face higher risks of conditions like cerebral palsy, anxiety, depression, autism, and schizophrenia later in life.
The findings indicate that taking Bifidobacterium breve supplements during pregnancy may enhance fetal brain metabolism and foster the development of a healthy baby.
The study’s findings were published today in the journal Molecular Metabolism.
Dr. Jorge Lopez-Tello, a researcher from the University of Cambridge’s Centre for Trophoblast Research and lead author of the study, stated, “Our research suggests that supplying ‘good bacteria’ to mothers could enhance the growth and development of their babies during pregnancy.”
He elaborated, “Future treatments for fetal growth restriction might focus on adjusting the gut microbiome using probiotics instead of relying on pharmaceutical solutions that could introduce side effects for pregnant women.”
Professor Amanda Sferruzzi-Perri, also from the University of Cambridge’s Centre for Trophoblast Research and senior author of the report, noted, “Current therapies for fetal growth restriction usually aim at improving blood flow in the mother. Our results suggest a shift in focus toward enhancing maternal gut health.”
She emphasized, “We know that maintaining good gut health, influenced by the types of microbes present, allows the body to better absorb nutrients and defend against infections and diseases.”
The study was performed on mice, which allowed researchers to closely control various factors such as genetics and environmental conditions, ensuring accurate assessments of Bifidobacterium breve. However, they believe the effects observed are likely applicable to humans as well.
Future investigations will involve monitoring the brain development of the offspring after birth and examining how Bifidobacterium breve interacts with other gut bacteria in natural settings.
Previously, the same researchers found that treating pregnant mice with Bifidobacterium breve improved the structure and functionality of the placenta, which in turn enhances the delivery of glucose and other vital nutrients to the developing fetus.
Professor Lindsay Hall at the University of Birmingham, who also contributed to the research, remarked, “While more studies are required to see how these findings relate to humans, this groundbreaking discovery could lead to future medical studies that underline the essential role of the maternal microbiome in fostering healthy brain development before birth.”
While the health of a pregnant mother has long been recognized as crucial for the well-being of her baby, the impact of her gut bacteria on fetal development has not been extensively explored.
