BERKELEY, CA – Scientists in Berkeley, California have achieved a significant breakthrough in developing formula milk that closely mimics the health benefits of breastfeeding. By genetically engineering a plant related to tobacco, researchers have successfully produced nutrients present in human breast milk. This innovation opens the door for infant formula milk that could better replicate the advantages of breastfeeding.
The study conducted by Dr. Patrick Shih at the University of California demonstrated that the genetically modified Nicotiana benthamiana plant was able to synthesize human milk oligosaccharides (HMOs), complex sugars that promote healthy gut bacteria and boost the infant immune system. These sugars, present in breast milk, are crucial for the development of the infant’s gut microbiome and immune system.
Currently, only a small number of HMOs can be manufactured using engineered E. coli bacteria, and the process of isolating these beneficial molecules is expensive. By reprogramming the plants’ sugar-making machinery, the scientists were able to produce 11 different HMOs, including LNFP1, associated with reducing infections in infants. This approach could lead to a more affordable and healthier formula for babies, as well as potentially enhancing non-dairy plant milk for adults.
Published in Nature Food, the study signifies a significant advancement in the field, as no organism had previously been able to produce all three major groups of human milk oligosaccharides simultaneously. The potential applications of this research extend beyond infant nutrition, with the possibility of developing HMO-based medicines and improving plant-based milks for adults. This innovative technique could pave the way for tailor-made plants that enhance various aspects of human health.
The production of HMOs in plants represents a promising avenue for achieving a more natural and beneficial alternative to traditional infant formula milk. As researchers continue to explore the potential of genetically modified plants in nutraceuticals and infant nutrition, the future of formula milk production looks increasingly promising. The ability to create designer plants tailored to improve human health is a step towards revolutionizing nutrition and well-being on a global scale.