Probiotic Lactobacillus Species Strengthen Intestinal Barrier Function and Tight Junction Integrity in Experimental Necrotizing Enterocolitis.

Necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) is an inflammatory intestinal disorder that affects premature infants. Despite years of research, it remains the most common gastrointestinal emergency seen in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU). NEC is associated with an average mortality of 15-30%, but may be as high as 75-85% in its most severe forms. Survivors may require surgical resection of necrotic bowel and incur associated morbidities, including short gut syndrome, growth delay, and neurodevelopment disorders. 

The pathophysiology of NEC is not well understood and as a result, care is mostly supportive with no defined preventative therapy available. There currently are no recommended strategies that consistently prevent NEC. The possibility of administering probiotic species to protect at-risk infants from developing NEC is a captivating concept that has received significant attention.(Read More)