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Do breast milk derived hormones play a role in neonatal development?
1Perinatal Laboratories, Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, UCLA School of Medicine, Torrance 90509.
Early Human Development
|June 1, 1992
Summary
Breast milk contains hormones and growth factors crucial for development. This review highlights the roles of thyroid hormones and epidermal growth factor (EGF) in mammals.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Developmental Biology
- Lactation Biology
Background:
- Breast milk is a rich source of bioactive substances.
- Hormones and growth factors in milk are thought to play significant physiological roles.
- Previous research suggests the importance of these milk-borne factors in development.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the biological functions of specific breast milk components.
- To focus on thyroid hormones and epidermal growth factor (EGF).
- To examine their roles in the development of various mammalian species.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of existing scientific studies.
- Synthesis of data on thyroid hormones and EGF in breast milk.
- Analysis of their documented effects in developing mammals.
Main Results:
- Thyroid hormones from milk influence metabolic rate and development.
- Epidermal growth factor (EGF) in milk supports gastrointestinal maturation.
- These factors demonstrate species-specific variations in importance and concentration.
Conclusions:
- Thyroid hormones and EGF in breast milk are vital for mammalian development.
- These bioactive milk components contribute to physiological maturation.
- Further research is warranted to fully elucidate their complex roles.