A recent study from the University of Rochester Medical Center reveals that breast milk contains antibodies that offer significant protection against rotavirus, a prevalent gastrointestinal illness causing diarrhea, vomiting, and fever in infants. The research indicates that infants whose mothers possess higher levels of specific antibodies in their breast milk can resist the infection for longer periods compared to those whose mothers have lower antibody levels. These findings are poised to guide future research aimed at enhancing infant health through optimized breastfeeding practices.
Published in the Journal of Clinical Investigation and supported by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, the study uncovered marked differences in antibody profiles in breast milk between mothers from high-income countries (HICs) and those from low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). The researchers analyzed milk samples from 695 women across various countries, including Finland, the United States, Pakistan, Peru, and Bangladesh. They measured specific immunoglobulin A (IgA) and immunoglobulin G (IgG) antibodies—common components of breast milk—against 1,607 proteins from 30 different pathogens.
Led by Dr. Kirsi Jarvinen-Seppo, MD, PhD, a professor in the Division of Allergy and Immunology at UR Medicine Golisano Children’s Hospital, the research tracked antibody levels and their changes over time to evaluate responses to a wide array of respiratory, diarrheal, and sepsis pathogens in human milk. The primary focus was to understand the protective qualities of these antibodies and how they differ across geographic and economic regions.
Key Findings
The study revealed several important insights:
Higher Antibody Levels in LMICs: Breast milk from women in low- and middle-income countries contained higher levels of IgA and IgG antibodies against various intestinal and respiratory pathogens compared to those in high-income countries. Notably, this difference was especially pronounced for pathogens like Shigella and pneumococcus, which significantly contribute to morbidity and mortality among young children.
Unexpected BMI Association: Contrary to expectations, a higher body mass index (BMI) in mothers was associated with lower antibody levels in breast milk. “We initially thought that underweight mothers might have lower antibody levels due to their nutritional status,” Dr. Jarvinen-Seppo explained. “However, rising obesity rates worldwide make this a noteworthy finding. This is preliminary data, and further research is necessary, as this is the first time such measurements have been conducted.”
Dr. Jarvinen-Seppo emphasized the importance of these findings, stating, “The variation in antibody profiles across different regions underscores the influence of economic and environmental factors on maternal immunity.”
While the study provides compelling data regarding rotavirus protection, the geographical differences and the unexpected correlation between BMI and antibody levels highlight areas that warrant further investigation. “This study paves the way for additional research that could lead to improved understanding and interventions aimed at enhancing infant health on a global scale,” Dr. Jarvinen-Seppo concluded.
As breast milk continues to be recognized for its critical role in protecting infant health, these findings could inform future strategies for breastfeeding practices, particularly in regions where the burden of gastrointestinal diseases remains high. By optimizing maternal antibody transfer through breastfeeding, health professionals may be able to significantly improve health outcomes for infants worldwide.
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