Study of the intestinal microbiota in children suffering from respiratory pathologies

Abstract

The Gut microbiota is a collection of diverse microorganisms that inhabit the gastrointestinal tract. They play a major role in metabolic functions, immune modulation, and inflammatory response. Multiple factors may affect the composition and diversity of the microbiota, including diet, environmental factors and drug consumption. Recent research indicates a close link between the gut microbiota and respiratory health, described as the "gut-lung axis." This study looks at the gut microbiota makeup of children who have respiratory conditions As part of this study, 15 samples were taken, 11 from respiratory-diseased children (Group A) and 4 from healthy neonates (Group B). Each sampling was followed by a survey surrounding the patient’s state. Enumeration and identification of intestinal microbiota was done by conventional methods and API systems. 16 identified strains were tested for their Antibiotic resistance. Results from the survey and the cultures were analyzed and displayed in graphs. The results of Group A identification resulted in a high abundance of Gram + Cocci with Enterococcus as the most prominent, and Gram - that related to nosocomial infections. Group B identification resulted in a high abundance of Gram - Bacilli, with Enterobacteriaceae as the most prominent. The strains tested for antibiotic susceptibility revealed high resistance to Ampicillin (AMP) across all strains. While showing high susceptibility to Imipenem, (IPM) Gentamicin (CN), and Nalidixic Acid (NA), especially within the Enterobacteriaceae family. In addition to AMP resistance, other strains from Enterobacteriaceae revealed resistance towards CN, Nitroxoline (NTX) and Cefazolin (CZ). The results of these experiments made us conclude that there is a huge difference between the gut microbiota of healthy children and the ones suffering from respiratory pathologies, as they are both affected by different factors that contribute to the formation of their gut microbiomes. These factors can contribute to either gut microbiota homeostasis or dysbiosis.