Human Microbiome Research and Development for Overcoming Pediatric Diseases

Prediction and treatment of pediatric diseases and long-term outcomes through microbiome and multi-omics analysis by life cycle: We aim to demonstrate that a wide range of diseases are associated with gut microbiome dysbiosis and to investigate the subsequent recovery (restoration) or further deterioration of the gut microbiome over time. This study seeks to offer a novel perspective on changes in the gut microbiome, particularly in the context of the gut-lung and gut-brain axes.

Fecal samples are collected and analyzed from birth through childhood, including those from both preterm and term infants. Based on these collected samples, groups are categorized into disease groups commonly observed in children. Genomic DNA is extracted from the fecal samples, followed by high-throughput 16S rRNA amplicon sequencing to analyze the microbial composition. Additionally, multiomics analyses, including metabolomics, are conducted to provide a comprehensive understanding of gut microbiome dynamics. The impact on the microbiome is further investigated in vitro using a fermenter-based intestinal microbiota model system.