A study conducted on mice has shown that administering the probiotic Bifidobacterium breve to pregnant mice can enhance fetal brain development. The probiotic seems to improve nutrient transport and support growth in the developing brain.
The research suggests that modifying the mother’s gut bacteria with probiotics may help address growth problems in fetuses, particularly when there are signs of developmental issues. However, further research is required to confirm these effects in humans and to understand the underlying mechanisms. Researchers compared fetal brain development in mice with no gut bacteria to those whose mothers were given Bifidobacterium breve during pregnancy. They found that the probiotic group had better nutrient transport to the brain and improved growth processes.
Pregnant women with obesity or chronic stress may experience changes in their gut bacteria, which can negatively impact fetal growth. Approximately 10% of first-time mothers have babies with low birth weight or growth problems, which can increase the risk of conditions such as cerebral palsy and mental health issues later in life.
The study’s findings, published in the journal Molecular Metabolism, indicate that Bifidobacterium breve can enhance fetal brain formation and contribute to a healthier pregnancy. Dr. Jorge Lopez-Tello from the University of Cambridge’s Centre for Trophoblast Research, who led the study, emphasized that providing beneficial bacteria to the mother could improve fetal growth and development.
Future research will focus on assessing brain development in babies after birth and exploring how this probiotic interacts with other gut bacteria under real-life conditions. Professor Lindsay Hall from the University of Birmingham, who also contributed to the study, noted that while further investigation is needed, these findings could lead to clinical studies exploring the role of the maternal microbiome in supporting healthy brain development before birth.
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