Welcome to the home of dynamic research projects based on samples from the Human Milk Science Institute and Biobank. Check back frequently for updates and new projects.
The Researcher
Dr. Timothy W. Hand, PhD
University of Pittsburgh
Director, Gnotobiotic Animal Core Laboratory and Associate Professor of Pediatrics Scholar, Richard King Mellon Foundation Institute for Pediatric Research
The Research
Necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) is a serious condition that affects newborns, especially those who are premature or have other health issues. The disease causes inflammation and damage to the intestines, which can be very dangerous. While doctors do not yet understand exactly how NEC develops, they have observed that babies who are fed human breast milk are less likely to get the disease compared to those who are fed formula.
Dr. Hand’s research focuses on a component of human breast milk called immunoglobulin A (IgA). IgA is an antibody, a type of protein that the immune system uses to fight off harmful bacteria and viruses. In breast milk, IgA can bind to bacteria in the baby’s gut, potentially protecting the delicate lining of the intestines from inflammation and infection.
The goal of Dr. Hand’s work is to investigate how different IgA antibodies in donor breast milk interact with various types of bacteria known to be associated with NEC. By understanding these interactions, Dr. Hand hopes to identify specific ways that breast milk protects babies from this dangerous disease. This could lead to better prevention strategies and treatments for NEC in high-risk infants.
Learn more: The Hand Lab for Immunity to Bacterial Colonization
The Researcher
Dr. Sarah J. Cox-Vazquez, PhD
Indiana University Bloomington
Faculty Scientist, Exosome Research Center Indiana University Bloomington
The Research
Human milk extracellular vesicles (hmEVs) are active components found in the milk of breastfeeding parents. Early research indicates that these vesicles might help control the baby’s immune system. Dr. Cox-Vazquez’s study aims to explore the biology and function of these vesicles, also known as exosomes, which serve as the body’s natural way of protecting and delivering important substances, especially in the case of preterm birth.
Learn more: Delineating Bovine Milk Derived Microvesicles from Exosomes Using Proteomics