Colostrum immunoglobulins and oxidative capacity may be affected by infant sex and maternal age and parity

Davut Sinan Kaplan,Mustafa Örkmez,Hakim Çeli̇k,Seyhun Sucu,Cahit Bağci,Özge Kömurcü Karuserci̇

doi:10.3906/sag-1810-66

Abstract

Background/aim The aims of this study were to determine the levels of the total antioxidant status (TAS), the total oxidant status (TOS), the oxidative stress index (OSI), and the concentration of immunoglobulin A (IgA) and M (IgM) in colostrum, and evaluate relationships between these parameters and maternal age, maternal parity, and infant sex. Materials and methods The analysis was performed in serum samples of colostrum which were collected from 90 mothers on the first day of lactation between 10:00 and 12:00 AM.Results The measurements established that no significant association existed between the TAS level of colostrum and parity, maternal age, or infant sex. However, mothers 18 to 30 years of age had significantly lower colostrum TOS and OSI levels compared with mothers older than 30 years of age. IgA and IgM values of the colostrum of primiparous mothers were significantly higher than those of multiparous mothers, whereas no correlations existed with the age of the mother. Additionally, significantly higher colostrum IgA and IgM values were observed in female infants fed colostrum compared with male infants. Conclusion In conclusion, sex-based hormonal changes in mothers during pregnancy may be associated with the different colostral immunoglobulin levels for male and female infants.

Highlights

Because optimal growth and development of infants is possible only with breast-feeding, breast milk is considered to be the gold standard for infant nutrition
The measurements established that no significant association existed between the total antioxidant status (TAS) level of colostrum and parity, maternal age, or infant sex
Mothers 18 to 30 years of age had significantly lower colostrum total oxidant status (TOS) and oxidative stress index (OSI) levels compared with mothers older than 30 years of age

Summary

Introduction

Because optimal growth and development of infants is possible only with breast-feeding, breast milk is considered to be the gold standard for infant nutrition. Breast milk transmits nutrients to the infant, affects biochemical systems, enhances immunity, and eliminates many pathogens. Increased concentrations of the oxidation products of lipids, proteins, and nucleic acids in bodily fluids indicate oxidative stress. The balance between the oxidation power of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and antioxidant defense mechanisms determines the degree of oxidative stress. The aim of the antioxidant defense system is to protect the organism against the adverse effects of ROSs [1]. Infants are exposed to increased oxidative stress due to increased ROS production during delivery and a

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Conclusion