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Sialic acid, the secret gift for the brain
Fan Liu1, Anna Bella Simpson1, Esmée D'Costa1
1Department of Pediatrics, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands.
Critical Reviews in Food Science and Nutrition
|May 9, 2022
Summary
Human milk oligosaccharides (HMOS), rich in sialic acid (Sia), are crucial for infant brain development and cognitive function. Dietary Sia supplementation shows promise for enhancing intelligence and potentially mitigating neurodegenerative diseases.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Developmental Biology
- Nutritional Science
Background:
- The developing human brain requires optimal nutrition, with human milk providing essential nutrients.
- Human milk oligosaccharides (HMOS), particularly sialylated forms, are critical for infant brain development.
- Sialic acid (Sia) is a key component of gangliosides, vital for brain structure and function.
Approach:
- This review critically assesses studies on breastfeeding, HMOS, and cognitive development in infants.
- It examines pre-clinical evidence for Sia supplementation enhancing cognitive performance.
- The review explores the role of HMOS and the gut-brain axis in neurodevelopment.
Key Points:
- Sialylated HMOS are a primary source of exogenous sialic acid for infants.
- Sialic acid is essential for ganglioside synthesis, impacting brain development and function.
- Emerging research links sialic acid to brain homeostasis and neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's.
Conclusions:
- Sialic acid plays a vital role in early brain development and cognitive function.
- Dietary sialic acid sources, including HMOS, may offer neuroprotective benefits throughout life.
- Further research is warranted to explore the therapeutic potential of sialic acid in neurological health.
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