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Lactoferrin Levels in Human Milk after Preterm and Term Delivery
Marzia Albenzio1, Antonella Santillo1, Ilaria Stolfi2
1Department of the Sciences of Agriculture, Food and Environment, University of Foggia, Foggia, Italy.
American Journal of Perinatology
|September 8, 2016
Summary
Lactoferrin (LF) levels in human milk are higher for preterm infants and decrease over time. This variability highlights differing infant needs and informs tailored LF supplementation strategies.
Area of Science:
- Human milk composition
- Neonatal nutrition
- Glycoprotein analysis
Background:
- Lactoferrin (LF) is a key functional glycoprotein in human milk with anti-infective and immunomodulatory properties.
- Limited data exist on LF concentration changes in maternal milk over lactation, especially concerning infant gestational age (GA).
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine lactoferrin (LF) levels in human milk from mothers of preterm and term infants.
- To evaluate variations in LF concentration over time (colostrum to mature milk) and by infant GA.
Main Methods:
- Milk samples collected from 28 mothers at 0-72 hours, 5-7 days, and >10 days postpartum.
- Samples categorized by infant GA: 24-27.6 (I), 28-31.6 (II), 32-34.6 (III), 35-37.6 (IV), and >38 weeks (V).
- Lactoferrin (LF) content analyzed using SDS-PAGE.
Main Results:
- Infant GA and time of sampling significantly affected LF levels in human milk.
- Higher LF content was observed in milk from mothers of extremely preterm infants (GA 24-27.6 weeks) (p<0.01).
- LF levels showed a significant decreasing trend over time, with highest concentrations in milk for infants with birth weight <1400g.
Conclusions:
- Human milk lactoferrin (LF) levels exhibit significant variability influenced by lactation stage and infant gestational age.
- This dynamic LF concentration may correspond to the evolving nutritional and immunological needs of infants.
- Findings support the development of individualized LF supplementation protocols for neonates in clinical and home settings.
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