Daniel J York, Anne L Smazal, Daniel T Robinson, Isabelle G De Plaen
Growing evidence demonstrates human milk's protective effect against necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC). Human milk derives these properties from biologically active compounds that influence intestinal growth, barrier function, microvascular development, and immunological maturation. Among these protective compounds are growth factors that are secreted into milk with relatively high concentrations during the early postnatal period, when newborns are most susceptible to NEC. This paper reviews the current knowledge on human milk growth factors and their mechanisms of action relevant to NEC prevention...
October 23, 2021: Nutrients