New publication co-authored by Tomasz Kościółek from Sano

a systematic review of maternal microbiome transfer to newborns

A new paper co-authored by Dr. Tomasz Kościółek, Research Team Leader of the Structural and Functional Genomics Group at Sano, has been published in the American Journal of Obstetrics & Gynecology. The article, authored by Jan Jurgiel, Tomasz Gromowski, Joanna Król, Dorota Bomba-Opoń, Tomasz Kościółek, and Mirosław Wielgoś, presents a systematic review of studies on maternal microbial transfer—a procedure aimed at restoring the natural microbiome in newborns delivered by cesarean section.

The authors conducted a comprehensive analysis of 10 studies including a total of 1,450 participants, focusing on the impact of maternal microbiome transfer on microbial diversity and neonatal development. While findings regarding changes in alpha diversity (a measure of microbial richness) were inconclusive, several studies indicated beneficial shifts in microbial composition—particularly involving Bacteroides, Bifidobacterium, and Lactobacillus species. Importantly, none of the reviewed studies reported any significant adverse effects related to the procedure.

It is emphasized, however, that the efficacy and safety of maternal microbial transfer require further investigation, as few studies have so far examined its long-term effects on infant development or allergy risks.

This publication represents an important step toward a better understanding of the role of the microbiome in shaping newborn health and provides a foundation for future research in this area.