Decoding the HMO‒microbiome axis: bridging maternal milk to infant health outcomes - PubMed
3 hours ago
- #microbiome
- #HMO
- #infant health
- Human milk oligosaccharides (HMO) are key glycans in breast milk that link maternal and infant microbiomes to health outcomes.
- HMO composition varies based on genetic factors, lactation stage, maternal diet, and health, affecting structural diversity.
- A bidirectional relationship exists: maternal microbiome influences HMO biosynthesis, and HMOs shape breast milk microbial communities.
- In infants, HMOs act as prebiotics, promoting beneficial gut microbiota like Bifidobacterium, which protects against infections and diseases.
- HMOs support infant health by reducing risks of necrotizing enterocolitis and allergies, and aiding neurodevelopment and bone mineralization.
- The HMO-microbiome axis highlights breast milk's role in fostering infant development and disease resilience.