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Beta-casomorphins-7 in infants on different type of feeding and different levels of psychomotor development

Natalya V Kost1, Oleg Yu Sokolov, Oksana B Kurasova

  • 1National Research Center for Mental Health RAMS, 113152 Moscow, Zagorodnoe shosse 2/2, Russia. nat-kost@yandex.ru

Peptides
|July 7, 2009
PubMed

Insights

Breast milk contains human beta-casomorphins (irHCM), while formula has bovine beta-casomorphins (irBCM). Elevated irBCM is linked to developmental delays in infants, suggesting breast milk offers advantages.

Area of Science:

  • Biochemistry
  • Pediatrics
  • Immunology

Background:

  • Casomorphins are biologically active peptides derived from milk proteins, crucial during infancy.
  • Postnatal development heavily relies on milk for nutrition and bioactive compounds.
  • Beta-casomorphins-7 (BCM-7) are key peptides studied for their effects on infant development.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the presence and levels of human (irHCM) and bovine (irBCM) beta-casomorphins-7 in infants fed breast milk versus formula.
  • To correlate BCM-7 levels with infant psychomotor development and muscle tone.
  • To explore the potential role of BCM-7 in developmental outcomes and diseases like autism.

Main Methods:

  • Study included 90 infants: 37 breast-fed and 53 formula-fed.
  • Detected immunoreactive human and bovine beta-casomorphins-7 (irHCM and irBCM) in blood plasma.
  • Measured basal levels and levels 3 hours post-feeding, with chromatographic characterization of irBCM.

Main Results:

  • irHCM and irBCM were detected in both feeding groups, before and after feeding.
  • Elevated levels post-feeding were mainly observed in infants under 3 months.
  • Higher basal irHCM in breast-fed infants with normal development; elevated basal irBCM in formula-fed infants with developmental delays and increased muscle tone.

Conclusions:

  • Breastfeeding appears advantageous for infant development compared to artificial feeding in the first year.
  • Deteriorated elimination of bovine casomorphins may be a risk factor for psychomotor delays and conditions like autism.
  • The findings support the significance of milk-derived peptides in early infant development and health.

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