Research on human milk oligosaccharides (HMOs) is a rapidly growing area of interest in early life nutrition. As the third largest solid constituent of breastmilk, HMOs could hold the key to unlocking important scientific insights in infant health. Evidence already shows that HMOs may play a significant role in short- and long-term infant development and overall health[1], while emerging research suggests there could be a possible link between HMOs and cognitive development.[2],[3] Despite the advances in HMO study, there is still a long way to go to fully examine their physiological roles. DSM recognised the need for a more collaborative approach and pioneered its first-of-a-kind HMO Donation Program – designed to open up a wealth of opportunities in the industry.
Overcoming challenges in HMO research
Through its HMO Donation Program, DSM is leading the way through HMO pre-clinical and clinical research. The program aims to help healthcare professionals, researchers and academics overcome common barriers in HMO research and take science even further. Human breast milk is unique in terms of its oligosaccharide complexity and concentration – this makes it both a compelling area of study but also hinders the practicalities of its research.[4] There are also at least 200 different HMOs that have been identified in human milk[5],[6], with specific amounts and compositions varying considerably between and within individual mothers over the course of lactation.[7],[8] Since these diverse, complex bioactive compounds are only available in human milk, HMOs have traditionally been inaccessible for extensive research. Technological advancement, however, means that these structures are becoming increasingly available for pre-clinical or clinical study, although not always in the volumes required for commercial sale.
Applying for a donation gives users access to information on nearly 20 different HMO structures and mixtures. The program aims to gain a better understanding of the health benefits, modes of action and potential applications of HMOs, as well as expanding the network of scientists and experts within the research field. To date, DSM’s HMO Donation Program has supported over 100 research projects, spanning 55 different research centers across the globe, on topics such as the gut-brain axis, healthy aging and protection against infection and pathogens.
New opportunities in the HMO space
Although HMO research has helped uncover some important scientific insights on infant health, it’s clear that we are still at the beginning of this journey – with plenty more opportunities of interest. Given the complexities of HMO structures and challenges for researchers in the HMO space, it is important to find ways to improve access to HMOs and encourage a more collaborative approach. DSM’s HMO Donation Program will be critical to paving the way for future innovation, and ultimately advancing our understanding of optimal nutrition in early life and beyond.
