The Diverse Antimicrobial Activities of Human Milk Oligosaccharides against Group B Streptococcus

Area of Science:

• Microbiology
• Immunology
• Perinatal Health

Background:

• Group B Streptococcus (GBS) causes severe perinatal infections, including preterm birth and neonatal sepsis.
• GBS colonizes the maternal vagina, leading to ascending infections and potential transmission to neonates.
• Human milk possesses protective properties against infections, attributed to its molecular components.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review recent research on the interaction between human milk oligosaccharides (HMOs) and GBS.
• To explore the potential of HMOs as a therapeutic or preventative strategy against GBS infections.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of published studies on HMOs and GBS.
• Analysis of research investigating the antimicrobial and immunomodulatory effects of HMOs.
• Examination of studies on HMOs' impact on GBS biofilm formation and antibiotic potentiation.

Main Results:

• Human milk oligosaccharides (HMOs) demonstrate significant antimicrobial and anti-biofilm activity against GBS.
• HMOs have been shown to enhance the efficacy of antibiotics when used against GBS.
• This review consolidates current findings on the protective roles of HMOs in the context of GBS.

Conclusions:

• HMOs represent a promising natural compound for mitigating GBS pathogenesis.
• Further research into HMOs could lead to novel strategies for preventing and treating GBS-related perinatal and infant infections.
• The findings highlight the importance of breast milk components in neonatal immunity.