How breastmilk antibodies help newborns' immune systems balance gut bacteria
Breastmilk antibodies regulate neonatal immunity to the microbiota
This study is looking at how the antibodies in breastmilk help newborns' immune systems respond to good and bad bacteria in their guts, which could lead to better health for babies.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Seattle, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11026435 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of maternal antibodies found in breastmilk in shaping the immune responses of newborns to gut bacteria. It focuses on understanding how these antibodies help prevent harmful inflammatory responses while promoting tolerance to beneficial microbes. The study will explore the specific types of antibodies transmitted through breastmilk and their mechanisms of action in the neonatal gut. By examining these interactions, the research aims to uncover important insights into neonatal immunity and gut health.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are newborns who are breastfed and may be at risk for immune-related issues.
Not a fit: Patients who are not newborns or those who are not breastfed may not receive benefits from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved strategies for enhancing neonatal immune health and preventing gut-related diseases in infants.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that maternal antibodies play a crucial role in infant immunity, suggesting that this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
Seattle, United States
- Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center — Seattle, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Koch, Meghan Anne — Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center
- Study coordinator: Koch, Meghan Anne
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.