Immunologic Factors in Human Milk and Disease Prevention in the Preterm Infant

Abstract

Exposure to the immunologic factors found in maternal breast milk has been shown to compensate for the immature immune system that characterizes the preterm infant. Feeding preterm infants with human milk not only provides protection from disease pathogenesis and ensures an optimal source of nutrients in the short term, but it also helps to ensure the development of a healthy immune response in the long term. Here, we review the immunological significance and antiinflammatory effects of a selection of the bioactive molecules found in human milk and how they may differ under conditions of preterm birth. In addition, the role that human milk plays in the intestinal colonization of the preterm infant and why this is important to short- and long-term health outcomes are discussed.