Early development Breastfeeding duration is crucial to shaping infant microbiome and respiratory health; lowers risk of asthma (Sep 2024, n=2,227) Microbial colonization programs are structured by breastfeeding and guide healthy respiratory development

Michael Harrop

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Highlights​

• Early breastfeeding cessation accelerates premature gain of microbial species/functions
• Breastfeeding over 3 months aids gradual microbiome maturation, protecting from asthma
• Microbiome colonization patterns and human milk composition accurately predict asthma
• Timely R. gnavus acquisition and tryptophan metabolism link human milk to asthma defense

Summary​

Breastfeeding and microbial colonization during infancy occur within a critical time window for development, and both are thought to influence the risk of respiratory illness. However, the mechanisms underlying the protective effects of breastfeeding and the regulation of microbial colonization are poorly understood.

Here, we profiled the nasal and gut microbiomes, breastfeeding characteristics, and maternal milk composition of 2,227 children from the CHILD Cohort Study. We identified robust colonization patterns that, together with milk components, predict preschool asthma and mediate the protective effects of breastfeeding.

We found that early cessation of breastfeeding (before 3 months) leads to the premature acquisition of microbial species and functions, including Ruminococcus gnavus and tryptophan biosynthesis, which were previously linked to immune modulation and asthma. Conversely, longer exclusive breastfeeding supports a paced microbial development, protecting against asthma.

These findings underscore the importance of extended breastfeeding for respiratory health and highlight potential microbial targets for intervention.

Graphical abstract​

 
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