New study finds antibodies in breast milk help shape newborns’ immune systems. (iStockphoto)
The new study shows how antibodies from breast milk interact with the just-forming immune system of the newborn to help shape lifelong immune responses that are key for establishing boundaries and balance between gut microbes and the mammalian host. If this balance fails to become established or later falters, chronic inflammatory conditions, such as Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis, may result.
A healthy relationship between host and bacteria is deemed to be “commensal,” essentially meaning that neither is harmed.
In their studies of mice, Gregory Barton and Meghan Koch, found 3 specific types of antibodies, IgA, IgG2b, IgG3 are present in breast milk and promote peace between the immune sy...
Recent Comments