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Abstract
Human milk oligosaccharides (HMOs) encompass over 200 distinct molecules that are crucial for neonatal development.
- HMOs are classified into neutral fucosylated, neutral non-fucosylated, and acidic sialylated types based on their sugar composition.
- Compositional variation of HMOs is influenced by genetic factors, mode of delivery, geographical and environmental differences, and maternal health status.
- HMOs may impact neurodevelopment through interactions with the gut microbiota, promoting beneficial bacteria and enhancing intestinal barrier integrity.
- They could also influence neurotransmitter pathways and the release of factors that support neuronal growth and synaptic connections.
- Safety assessments indicate that HMOs are suitable for inclusion in infant formula, potentially addressing nutritional gaps for infants not fully breastfed.
Simplified
Gut-Brain Axis