Analysis of gene-environment interactions in postnatal development of the mammalian intestine.

ABSTRACT: Unlike mammalian embryogenesis, which takes place in the relatively predictable and stable environment of the uterus, postnatal development can be affected by a multitude of highly variable environmental factors, including diet, exposure to noxious substances, and microorganisms. Microbial colonization of the intestine is thought to play a particularly important role in postnatal development of the gastrointestinal, metabolic, and immune systems. Major changes in environmental exposure occur right after birth, upon weaning, and during pubertal maturation into adulthood. These transitions include dramatic changes in intestinal contents and require appropriate adaptations to meet changes in functional demands. Here, we attempt to both characterize and provide mechanistic insights into postna

SUBMITTER: Rakoff-Nahoum S 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC4343130 | biostudies-literature | 2015 Feb

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature