AI Insight
A large-scale study reveals that epigenetic changes present at birth can influence the development of a baby's gut microbiome during the first year of life. Researchers identified specific gene-microbe combinations that were associated with early indicators of autism and ADHD by age three, suggesting that brain development may be partially shaped by interactions between genetics and gut bacteria before and shortly after birth.
Why it matters
This research could lead to early screening methods for neurodevelopmental conditions and potential interventions targeting the gut microbiome during pregnancy or infancy. Understanding these gene-microbe interactions may open new pathways for prevention or early treatment strategies for autism and ADHD.
A major study suggests that some of the groundwork for brain development may be shaped before birth through a surprising partnership between a baby’s genes and gut microbes. Researchers found that epigenetic changes present at birth can influence how the gut microbiome develops during the first year of life, and certain combinations were linked to early signs of autism and ADHD by age three.
Source: Scientists discover gut bacteria that may help protect against autism and ADHD