24/01/2023
The Hicks et al. team (2022) have identified specific tiny molecules in human milk, known as microRNAs, that could potentially reduce the likelihood of infants developing eczema, asthma, and food allergies.
These microRNAs play a crucial role in regulating the immune system, and their identification opens up new possibilities for preventing and treating these common conditions. One-third of little ones experience food allergies, asthma, and atopic dermatitis, much to the distress of parents.
The protective factor in human milk appears to be miRNA-375-3p, which amazingly increases in concentration over time while lactating!
So keep it up parents, your milk is magic!
Citation: Hicks, S. D., Beheshti, R., Chandran, D., Warren, K., & Confair, A. (2022). Infant consumption of microRNA miR-375 in human milk lipids is associated with protection from atopy. The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, 116(6), 1654-1662.