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Fibronectin synthesis bioactivity in human breast milk
N Fukushima1, K Nagashima, T Kuroume
1Department of Pediatrics, Gunma University School of Medicine, Japan.
Biology of the Neonate
|January 1, 1994
Summary
Human breast milk contains fibronectin synthesis bioactivity (FnSA), crucial for the perinatal period. This bioactivity is composed of epidermal growth factor (EGF), fibroblast growth factor (FGF), and other factors.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Human Physiology
- Neonatal Nutrition
Background:
- Fibronectin is vital for perinatal development.
- The role of human milk components in fibronectin synthesis is not fully understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate fibronectin synthesis bioactivity (FnSA) in human breast milk.
- To characterize the components responsible for FnSA.
Main Methods:
- Fibronectin synthesis bioassay using fibroblasts.
- Chromatographic techniques including gel filtration (Sephadex G-100), high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), and heparin-binding affinity chromatography.
Main Results:
- FnSA was detected in human breast milk.
- FnSA fractions overlapped with immunoreactive epidermal growth factor (ir-EGF).
- FnSA fractions also contained components similar to basic brain fibroblast growth factor (ir-bFGF) and unknown low-molecular-weight factors.
Conclusions:
- Human breast milk possesses fibronectin synthesis bioactivity.
- This bioactivity is attributed to EGF, FGF, and other low-molecular-weight factors.
- Identified a novel characteristic of human milk with potential clinical significance.