New study highlights five specific HMOs across the three categories of HMOs in breast milk showing they may provide support for gut health, the immune system and cognitive development.
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‘HMOs are linked to broad molecular and cellular changes in the developing brain. The complex signaling relationship is prompting studies to examine additional correlations between gut health and brain development.’
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"As our understanding of the role that HMOs can deliver to babies grows, we will continue our research and use it to support future innovations in infant nutrition that help narrow the gap between formula-fed and breast-fed infants."Read More..
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This research review by lead author David Hill, Ph.D., research scientist at Abbott, proposes that the goal of infant formula innovation should be to emulate the benefits of breast milk during development and growth.
It also proposes that five core Human Milk Oligosaccharides (HMOs) across the three categories of HMOs in breast milk may support digestive health, immune health and cognitive development in complementary ways.
Of the more than 150 HMOs found in breast milk, the five core specific HMOs that researchers focused on for purposes of this review include 2’-FL (2’-fucosyllactose); 3-FL (3-fucosyllactose); 3’-SL (3’-sialyllactose); 6’-SL (6’-sialyllactose) and LNT, (Lacto-N-Tetraose). These HMOs are found in the fucosylated, sialylated and acetylated HMO categories.
HMOs feed good bacteria in the gut, where 70% of the immune system resides, and promote growth of beneficial microbes, influencing immune development and the gut-brain axis through the microbial products produced.
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This gut-brain connection is revolutionizing the way scientists understand the links between digestion, the immune system, overall health, and even the way we think – from the moment we’re born.
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In addition to supporting the assembly and function of the gut microbiota, HMOs work in complementary ways to provide immune support, which is built on the foundation of a healthy gut.
In cell culture, the ability of individual HMOs across the three categories to block specific pathogen attachment to epithelial cells may provide immune support in complementary ways. Pre-clinical science suggests HMOs may act to support immune system development by modulating the behavior of immune cells.
Pre-clinical research suggests that HMOs are associated with broad molecular and cellular changes in the developing brain. The complex signaling relationship between the gut and the brain via the gut-brain axis is prompting research to examine additional correlations between gut health and brain development.
Source-Eurekalert