Human Milk Oligosaccharides: Next-Generation Functions and Questions

Area of Science:

• Nutritional Biochemistry
• Human Lactation Biology
• Infant Nutrition

Background:

• Human milk oligosaccharides (HMOs) are the third most abundant component in human milk, with over 150 identified structures.
• HMO composition varies significantly between individuals but is stable within a single woman over lactation.
• Factors influencing interindividual variation in HMO composition and their evolutionary adaptation to infant needs are poorly understood.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the current understanding of Human milk oligosaccharides (HMOs) complexity and function.
• To highlight the need for comprehensive research combining preclinical, cohort, and clinical studies.
• To emphasize the structure-specific and ratio-dependent effects of HMOs.

Main Methods:

• Review of existing preclinical, cohort, and clinical studies on HMOs.
• Analysis of structure-specific and synergistic effects of different HMOs.
• Assessment of the potential health impacts of individual HMOs versus complex mixtures.

Main Results:

• HMO effects can be structure-specific or dependent on combinations and ratios of different HMOs.
• Administration of individual HMOs alone might be counterproductive or harmful.
• The intricate composition of HMOs cannot be replicated in artificial infant formulas.

Conclusions:

• Further research is crucial to elucidate the precise roles and optimal administration of HMOs.
• The unique complexity of HMOs underscores the importance of breastfeeding for infant health.
• Protecting and promoting breastfeeding is essential due to the irreplaceable benefits of natural HMO composition.