Role of the Gut Microbiota in Children’s Health
A special issue of Microorganisms (ISSN 2076-2607). This special issue belongs to the section "Gut Microbiota".
Deadline for manuscript submissions: 31 May 2026 | Viewed by 11
Special Issue Editor
2. Pediatric Unit, Sant'Andrea University Hospital, Via Grottarossa 1035, 00189 Rome, Italy
Interests: gastrointestinal disease; microbiota; pediatrics; probiotics
Special Issue Information
Dear Colleagues,
The human microbiota plays a fundamental role in maintaining intestinal homeostasis, immune development, and overall health, starting in early life. Emerging evidence is highlighting the dynamic interactions between gut microorganisms, diet, genetics, and the environment, particularly during infancy and childhood—a critical window for shaping long-term health outcomes. Alterations in microbiota composition have been linked to a wide range of pediatric disorders, including celiac disease, inflammatory bowel diseases, eosinophilic gastrointestinal disorders, and liver diseases. Furthermore, the use of prebiotics, probiotics, postbiotics, and human milk oligosaccharides (HMOs) has shown promise in modulating the gut microbiota and supporting both preventive and therapeutic strategies.
This Special Issue will provide an updated overview of the role of the microbiota in pediatric health and disease, exploring the mechanisms underlying host–microbe interactions and the potential clinical applications of microbiota-targeted interventions. Contributions will cover topics ranging from nutritional modulation and fecal microbiota transplantation to the emerging role of bioactive compounds in early life. By showcasing multidisciplinary perspectives, we aim to advance our understanding of this topic and promote evidence-based use of microbiota-related approaches in pediatric care.
Dr. Maurizio Mennini
Guest Editor
Manuscript Submission Information
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Keywords
- microbiota
- pediatrics
- probiotics
- prebiotics
- postbiotics
- human milk oligosaccharides
- fecal microbiota transplantation
- gut health
- nutrition
- immune development
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