Do HMOs have a protective role in reducing the risk of respitory infections?

HMOs may have immunomodulatory effects and may reduce pathogen adhesion at the entry into the upper respiratory tract

• HMOs in milk from secretor mothers play a role in protecting babies from respiratory infections during the period of predominant breastfeeding
• Preclinical studies suggest that the HMO 2’FL significantly decreases the respiratory syncytial virus-dependent increase in cytokines
• Formulae supplemented with 2′FL may influence innate and adaptive immune profiles similar to that of breastfed infants
• A 70% lower risk of bronchitis and about 55% lower risk of lower respiratory infections (LRTIs) was reported in infants who were fed formula supplemented with 2’FL and LNnT through 12 months of age
• HMOs 2’FL and LNnT, when added in infant formulae stimulate Bifidobacterium longum subsp infantis ( infantis) to support mucosal barrier function and pathogen resistance, thereby reducing the risk of lower respiratory tract illnesses in infants