Breast feeding conditions a differential developmental pattern of mucosal immunity

A prospective study of 146 children was conducted to evaluate the influence of infant feeding patterns on the development of mucosal immunity. First, there was a trend towards lower IgG concentrations in the breast-fed neonate, indicating a possible earlier 'closure' mechanism of membrane permeability. Second, the post-natal increase in IgA was earlier and greater in formula-fed infants. Third, IgM was detected earlier, more frequently, and at higher levels in formula-fed infants.