Human milk oligosaccharides: prebiotics and beyond.

Bibliographic Collection: 
MOCA Reference, APE
Publication Type: Journal Article
Authors: Bode, L.
Year of Publication: 2009
Journal: Nutr Rev
Volume: 67 Suppl 2
Pagination: S183-91
Date Published: 11/2009
Publication Language: eng
ISSN: 1753-4887
Keywords: Gastrointestinal Tract, Humans, Infant, Infant Formula, Infant Nutritional Physiological Phenomena, Infant, Newborn, Milk, Human, Oligosaccharides, Prebiotics
Abstract:

Human milk oligosaccharides (HMO) are complex glycans that are present at very high concentrations in human milk but not in infant formula. The significant energy expended by mothers to make these complex glycans suggests they must be important. How do maternal HMOs benefit the breast-fed infant? How are HMOs synthesized in the human mammary gland? How can we provide formula-fed infants with HMOs or HMO-like glycans? This article reviews current knowledge and open questions on the biosynthesis and functions of HMOs.

DOI: 10.1111/j.1753-4887.2009.00239.x
Alternate Journal: Nutr. Rev.
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