The relationship between human milk, a functional nutrient, and microbiota

Area of Science:

• Microbiology
• Pediatrics
• Immunology
• Nutrition Science

Background:

• The intestinal microbiota is crucial for immune system maturation and disease prevention throughout life.
• Infant gut microbiota development is primarily influenced by nutrition post-birth, with distinct differences between breastfed and formula-fed infants.
• Human milk oligosaccharides (HMOs) and HM glycoproteins are key components influencing gut microbiota composition.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the impact of breast milk on the development of the infant gut microbiota.
• To review and synthesize existing literature on breast milk's role in shaping infant gut microbial communities.

Main Methods:

• Literature review and synthesis of studies examining the relationship between breast milk components and infant gut microbiota.
• Analysis of research focusing on the effects of human milk oligosaccharides and glycoproteins.

Main Results:

• Breastfed infants exhibit higher levels of beneficial Bifidobacterium species and lower alpha and beta diversity compared to formula-fed infants.
• Human milk oligosaccharides act as prebiotics, promoting Bifidobacterium growth and preventing pathogen adhesion.
• Short-chain fatty acids derived from HMO digestion also contribute to gut health.

Conclusions:

• Breast milk composition, particularly HMOs and glycoproteins, plays a vital role in establishing a protective infant gut microbiota.
• The prebiotic effects of HMOs contribute to a favorable microbial environment, supporting infant health and immune development.
• Understanding these mechanisms highlights the importance of breast milk for infant gut health.