Antibiotic warning from scientists: Beneficial bacteria after birth train the baby's immune system

According to research published in the journal Science Translational Medicine, the first friendly bacteria that settle in the baby's intestine after leaving the mother's womb establish a special protein defense line that protects the internal organs from deadly pathogens.

CALPROTECTIN PROTEIN IS PRODUCED BY THE BABY'S OWN TISSUE

Researchers found that high amounts of an antimicrobial protein complex called "calprotectin" accumulate in the intestines of healthy newborns in the first days of birth. It has been documented that this protective protein, produced by blood cells in adults, is secreted directly by the epithelial tissue lining the intestinal wall in infants.

It was observed that beneficial bacteria of the Lactobacillus type, which settled in the intestine immediately after birth, sent a "produce calprotectin" signal to the intestinal cells through the chemical compounds they secreted, creating an impenetrable defense barrier around the organs.

UNCONSCIOUS USE OF ANTIBIOTICS TRIGGERS FATAL SEPSIS

In a clinical study, it was proven that beneficial Lactobacillus bacteria were destroyed and the calprotectin shield collapsed in newborns exposed to broad-spectrum antibiotics. It has been noted that when the protective barrier disappears, dangerous bacteria such as Citrobacter rodentium infiltrate the bloodstream, spread to organs, and cause fatal blood poisoning (sepsis).

However, when subjects whose immune system had collapsed due to antibiotics were given Lactobacillus probiotic or purified calprotectin protein supplements, it was documented that the intestinal barrier was rapidly rebuilt and survival rates rose radically.

ALSO CONFIRMED IN HUMAN TISSUES: NEW HOPE AGAINST INFANT DEATHS

Following the mouse experiments, the researchers tested the findings on 3D miniature intestinal tissues (organoids) they produced from human biopsies. It has been confirmed that human intestinal cells also produce calprotectin using the same cellular mechanism.

Experts emphasize that four out of every 10 child deaths in the world are caused by premature birth and infections, and report that neonatal deaths and infant sepsis cases will be prevented by applying new microbiome treatments targeting beneficial bacteria and calprotectin protein in clinics.