Impact of breast milk components on growth in infants exposed to HIV

Effects of Human Milk Oligosaccharides and Gut Microbiome on Growth and Morbidity in HIV-Exposed Uninfected Infants

NIH-funded research University of Washington · NIH-10610833

This study is looking at how certain sugars in breast milk and the good bacteria in babies' tummies can help infants who are exposed to HIV but are not infected, focusing on how these factors might support their growth and health.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Washington NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Seattle, United States)
Project IDNIH-10610833 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how human milk oligosaccharides (HMOs) and the gut microbiome affect the growth and health of infants who are exposed to HIV but are uninfected. It focuses on understanding the relationship between specific HMOs in breast milk and the development of beneficial gut bacteria, which are crucial for immune system development. By analyzing the gut microbiome and HMO composition in these infants, the study aims to identify factors that contribute to their increased risk of growth issues and infections. The research involves collecting samples and data from infants to explore these connections.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are infants aged 0-11 months who are HIV-exposed but uninfected.

Not a fit: Patients who are HIV-unexposed or older than 11 months may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved nutritional strategies that enhance growth and reduce health risks for HIV-exposed uninfected infants.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promising results in understanding the role of breast milk components in infant health, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Seattle, 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.