Season 2025, Episode 73: Unveiling the Gut-Lung Connection in Premature Infants | The Role of Fungal Microbiota in Bronchopulmonary Dysplasia
In this episode of SciBud, we dive into groundbreaking research that uncovers the intriguing connection between gut fungi and lung injury in premature infants, particularly focusing on the chronic condition known as bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD). As the leading lung disease among preterm babies, BPD can severely impact their development and health. We discuss a study analyzing stool samples from very low birth weight infants, revealing that a diverse yet less interconnected fungal microbiome may exacerbate lung injury. Through innovative methodologies including fecal microbiota transplantation in mice, researchers demonstrated the gut mycobiome's influence on lung health, potentially paving the way for future therapeutic strategies. Join us as we explore these findings, their implications for improving care for vulnerable infants, and the intricate relationship between our gut and lungs. Stay curious and keep learning with us at SciBud!