Human Milk Oligosaccharides: Potential Upshot on Health at Early Life Stage Development

Abstract

In the crucial early months of life, an infant's health, growth, and safeguarding are paramount. Breastfeeding stands out as the optimal and natural means of nourishment, offering profound benefits for their development and overall wellness. Within breast milk, a rich array of bioactive components, including hormones, oligosaccharides, and immunoglobulins, provide neonates with an ideal nutritional balance. Among these, Human Milk Oligosaccharides (HMOs) rank prominently, serving both as prebiotics and shields against various neonatal ailments. Particularly, compounds like 2′-Fucosyllactose (2′-FL) and Lacto-N-Neotetraose (LNnT) have been deemed safe for integration into infant formulas, amplifying their benefits. Extensive research underscores the manifold advantages of HMOs, from modulating gut microbiota to bolstering immune function and thwarting pathogenic invaders. HMOs also exhibit a nuanced interplay with maternal genetics, influencing their quantity and diversity. Infants nursed by secretor mothers tend to enjoy enhanced HMO benefits compared to non-secretor counterparts. Incorporating HMOs like Lacto-N-Neotetraose and 2′-Fucosyllactose into infant formulas represents a pivotal stride in optimizing child nutrition. This review offers a thorough exploration of recent research on HMOs, delving into their varied types, concentrations, and compositions, while emphasizing their profound impact on infant health and safety. By consolidating current research findings and recent progress, this study seeks to clarify the diverse effects of HMOs on different facets of human physiology, immune system maturation, modulation of gut microbiota, neurological functioning, and lifelong health implications. Emphasizing the pivotal role of HMOs in influencing human well-being from infancy to maturity, this review emphasize the necessity for continued research and potential utilization in clinical settings and nutritional science.