Altered Functional Connectivity in the Brain Induced by Early-life Mild Necrotizing Enterocolitis

Motivation: According to the clinical findings, the survivors of necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) may suffer from long-term neurodevelopmental impairment. However, how the local intestine inflammation impacts brain function needs further investigation. Goal(s): To probe the long-term alteration in the brain network induced by NEC in early life. Approach: After employing a neonatal rat model of NEC with lipopolysaccharide at postnatal 7 days, we measured the functional connectivity in the brain in its adolescent age (about P40). Results: Neurodevelopmental impairment induced by mild early-life NEC was reflected by rsfMRI in adolescent rats. Impact: We provide evidence showing that preterm NEC may induce the subsequent alteration in the functional brain network. Our results indicate the association between the early-life local intestine inflammation and long-term neurodevelopmental impairment, suggesting the interaction of the gut-brain axis.