Related Experiment Video

Updated: Aug 12, 2026

Assessing Cellular Stress and Inflammation in Discrete Oxytocin-secreting Brain Nuclei in the Neonatal Rat Before and After First Colostrum Feeding
09:12

Assessing Cellular Stress and Inflammation in Discrete Oxytocin-secreting Brain Nuclei in the Neonatal Rat Before and After First Colostrum Feeding

Published on: November 14, 2018

[Review article: colostral leukocytes and their significance for the immune system of newborns]

G Riedel-Caspari1, F W Schmidt

  • 1Tierärztlichen Institut, Georg-August-Universität Göttingen.

DTW. Deutsche Tierarztliche Wochenschrift
|April 1, 1990
PubMed

Insights

Colostrum contains vital immune cells like neutrophils, macrophages, and lymphocytes, crucial for newborn immunity. These leukocytes can transfer to the neonate, potentially influencing their immune responses and protection against infection.

Area of Science:

  • Immunology
  • Neonatal Biology
  • Cell Biology

Context:

  • Colostrum, the first milk produced after birth, is rich in immune cells.
  • These leukocytes, including neutrophils, macrophages, and lymphocytes, are present in high concentrations, similar to peripheral blood.
  • Lymphocytes may selectively migrate to the mammary gland during the peripartum period.

Purpose:

  • To investigate the immunological activities and potential roles of colostral leukocytes in neonates.
  • To understand the journey and influence of these maternal immune cells within the newborn's system.
  • To explore the significance of colostral leukocytes in protecting newborns against infections.

Summary:

  • Colostrum contains a high concentration of vital leukocytes (neutrophils, macrophages, lymphocytes).
  • In vitro, these leukocytes display immunological activities, though milk medium can limit their function compared to blood leukocytes.
  • Colostral leukocytes can survive in the newborn's gut, potentially crossing the intestinal wall and influencing neonatal immune reactions like hypersensitivity and antibody formation.

Impact:

  • Colostral leukocytes may play a role in transferring immunoglobulins to the neonate.
  • These cells can influence the developing immune system of the newborn, affecting immune responses.
  • Further research is needed to fully elucidate the protective role of colostral leukocytes against neonatal infections.

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