In this closing interview from PPPP 2026 in Lecce, Prof. Flavia Indrio reflects on the main take-home messages from the congress, which brought together 32 leading international experts in microbiota research, allergy, nutrition, gut-brain axis and lung disease. Among the strongest themes to emerge was the importance of early-life intestinal colonization, with breastfeeding, avoidance of unnecessary C-sections and prompt management of dysbiosis identified as key factors in shaping health trajectories later in life. Indrio also highlights the growing clinical relevance of gut-brain axis research, which is beginning to open new therapeutic perspectives in severe pediatric conditions such as autism spectrum disorders and cognitive development disorders. 

A central focus of her interview is a 10-year follow-up study on newborns supplemented with Lactobacillus reuteri during the first three months of life, showing that beneficial effects may persist over time. The interview also touches on new insights into allergy, the interplay between microbiome and epigenetics, and the pivotal role of nutrition as a driver of intestinal colonization. The next PPPP meeting, she announces, will take place in Mexico City in March 2028, with broader involvement from the Latin American scientific community.