Gut microbiota and disorders of gut-brain interaction

Functional gastrointestinal disorders (FGID), now called Disorders of Gut-Brain Interaction (DGBI) are the most common diagnoses in gastroenterology, characterized by an altered gut microbiota. Approximately 50% of all infants suffer from at least one type of DGBI during their first months of life. This brain-gut microbiota axis is a bi-directional communication, and there is growing evidence that the gut microbiota and its metabolites regulate various aspects of neurodevelopment and cognitive function. Prof. Rodrigo Vazquez Frias compared the microbial diversity, stability, and colonization patterns of infants with colic to those of infants without colic. It was also discussed how for infants with colic may benefit from the role of probiotics, such as L. reuteri DSM 17938 and B. lactis BB12. Even though infant colic is considered a self-limiting condition, studies show that it is linked with the development of persistent DGBI symptoms and other chronic gastrointestinal diseases later in life such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).  Iinitial findings on a study on IBS symptoms and constipation, show that while causality in IBS remains undetermined, studies have shown alterations in fecal microbial composition in IBS subjects. Additionally, in cases of constipation, the gut microbiome may impact intestinal physiology and motility.