How human milk oligosaccharides affect brain development in preterm infants
Role of Human Milk Oligosaccharides on Brain Development in Preterm Infants
This study is looking at how certain sugars in breast milk, called human milk oligosaccharides (HMOs), might help the brains of preterm babies grow and develop better, especially in areas like memory and attention, using MRI scans to see how their brains are doing.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Brigham and Women's Hospital NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10767917 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the impact of human milk oligosaccharides (HMOs), which are complex carbohydrates found in breast milk, on the brain development of preterm infants. The study aims to explore how these HMOs may enhance cognitive functions such as memory and attention by using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to assess brain structure and function. By analyzing the relationship between HMOs and brain development, the research seeks to identify specific components of breast milk that contribute to better cognitive outcomes in infants. This could provide valuable insights into optimizing breastfeeding practices for improved infant health.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are preterm infants who are being breastfed and their mothers, particularly those from Hispanic backgrounds.
Not a fit: Patients who are not preterm infants or those who are not breastfed may not receive any benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to enhanced cognitive development in preterm infants, potentially reducing their risk of neuropsychiatric disorders later in life.
How similar studies have performed: Previous animal studies have shown promising results regarding the cognitive benefits of HMOs, suggesting that this approach may be effective in humans as well.
Where this research is happening
Boston, United States
- Brigham and Women's Hospital — Boston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Berger, Paige Kimberly — Brigham and Women's Hospital
- Study coordinator: Berger, Paige Kimberly
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.