Normal flora and birth

[Paul D Boyer PhD]

Hi-

I'm teaching a senior/grad level immunology course and a question came
up about enteric bacteria and the innate protection system.  It's often
stated that the normal flora compete with pathogens to prevent their
growth.  When do these bacteria establish themselves?  Before or after
birth?  Are they inoculated via nursing?

Thanks!

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Paul D. Boyer, Ph.D.                    Univ. of WI, Parkside
Asst. Prof. of Molecular Biology        900 Wood Road, Box 2000
Dept. of Biological Sciences            Kenosha, WI  53141-2000
                   e-mail: paul.boyer at uwp.edu
               Home page: http://uwp.edu/~boyer/

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