Microbial–host molecular exchange and its functional consequences in early mammalian life

Science, vol. 368, pp. 604–607

Abstract

Molecules from symbiotic microorganisms pervasively infiltrate almost every organ system of a mammalian host, marking the initiation of microbial-host mutualism in utero, long before the newborn acquires its own microbiota. Starting from in utero development, when maternal microbial molecules can penetrate the placental barrier, we follow the different phases of adaptation through the life events of birth, lactation, and weaning, as the young mammal adapts to the microbes that colonize its body surfaces. The vulnerability of early-life mammals is mitigated by maternal detoxification and excretion mechanisms, the protective effects of maternal milk, and modulation of neonatal receptor systems. Host adaptations to microbial exposure during specific developmental windows are critical to ensure organ function for development, growth, and immunity.

Authors 3

1. Stephanie Christine Ganal-Vonarburg

   University of Bern · University Hospital of Bern

   Affiliation as printed

   Universitätsklinik für Viszerale Chirurgie und Medizin, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, Department for BioMedical Research (DBMR), University of Bern, Murtenstrasse 35, 3008 Bern, Switzerland

2. Mathias Walter Hornef Aachen Institute for Medical Microbiology

   RWTH Aachen University · Universitätsklinikum Aachen

   Affiliation as printed

   Institute for Medical Microbiology, RWTH University Hospital, Pauwelsstrasse 30, D-52074 Aachen, Germany

3. Andrew J. Macpherson corresponding

   University of Bern · University Hospital of Bern

   Affiliation as printed

   Universitätsklinik für Viszerale Chirurgie und Medizin, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, Department for BioMedical Research (DBMR), University of Bern, Murtenstrasse 35, 3008 Bern, Switzerland