Early empiric antibiotic exposure affects gut microbiota development of very preterm infants

Pediatric Research 2026 Open access

Read full text
Authors: Aranka J. van Wesemael, Kelly Klomp, Anna M. Malinowska, Anton H. van Kaam, T De Meij, C. Belzer, Hendrik J. Niemarkt, On behalf of the Generation P study group, Chris H. P. van den Akker, Rimke R. de Kroon, Nina M. Frerichs, Nathalie J Oldenburger
+7 more Marlou M A Kouwenberg-Raets, Christian V. Hulzebos, Esther d’Haens, Willem P. de Boode, Marijn J. Vermeulen, Daniel C. Vijlbrief, V. Cossey
DOI: 10.1038/s41390-026-04778-y
Cited by: 2
References: 41

Abstract

BACKGROUND: After birth, antibiotics are frequently administered to preterm infants for suspected early onset sepsis (EOS). Early empiric antibiotic exposure (EEAE) may disrupt the gut microbiota of preterm infants. This study investigates the association between EEAE duration and gut microbiota dynamics in the first month of life in very preterm infants. METHODS: A selected cohort of 127 very preterm infants (

Fields of Study & Subjects

Neonatal and Maternal Infections Gut microbiota and health Infant Nutrition and Health

Publication details

Journal / source
Pediatric Research
Publisher
Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Publication date
17 February 2026
Language
EN