How genetics and milk composition affect infant health

Genetic and genomic influences on human milk composition and impacts on infant health

NIH-funded research University of Minnesota · NIH-10784288

This study is looking at how the genes of breastfeeding mothers affect the nutrients in their milk and how that impacts the health of their babies, especially during the important first two years of life, including those born early.

Quick facts

Grant typeCareer grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Minnesota NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Minneapolis, United States)
Project IDNIH-10784288 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the complex relationship between the genetic factors influencing human milk composition and their effects on infant health. By utilizing advanced genomics and metabolomics techniques, the study aims to identify key components in human milk that contribute to infant development, particularly during the critical first 1000 days of life. The research will also explore the impact of human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) on milk composition and its potential consequences for infants, especially those who are preterm. The findings could provide valuable insights into optimizing infant nutrition and health outcomes.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include breastfeeding mothers and their infants, particularly those with concerns about infant health and development.

Not a fit: Patients who are not breastfeeding or whose infants are not receiving human milk may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding of how to enhance infant nutrition through tailored breastfeeding practices.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the relationship between milk composition and infant health, indicating that this approach has potential for significant findings.

Where this research is happening

Minneapolis, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.