Abstract: The intestinal microflora is an indispensable part of the human body. Intestinal microbial diversity and the stability of microbial community structure are of great importance for human health. Clinical studies have shown that intestinal microbial populations play an important role in the development of disease for special populations. Prebiotics, as an important part of human diet, are mainly derived from non-digestible oligosaccharides and dietary fiber from plants. It has been demonstrated that prebiotics could selectively promote intestinal microflora proliferation and enhance metabolic activity. This paper is focused on the differences in intestinal microbial colonization among special populations including premature infants, obese people and the elderly based on the intestinal microbiota changes with age, as well as proposed mechanisms of prebiotics for regulating the the intestinal microbiota in the populations. We hope this review can provide a theoretical guideline for further research on the mechanism underlying prebiotic regulation of the intestinal microbiota and the development of prebiotic functional foods.

Key words: prebiotics, intestinal flora, premature infants, obesity, the elderly