Tobacco-like plant engineered to pump out nutrients found in breast milk
Scientists genetically modified a plant to produce human breast milk nutrients, aiming to improve infant formula. The breakthrough creates potential for healthier, more affordable options mimicking breastfeeding benefits, benefiting infant health.
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Scientists have genetically engineered a tobacco-like plant to produce nutrients found in human breast milk, potentially leading to healthier and more affordable formula milk for babies. The study focused on creating human milk oligosaccharides (HMOs) in the plant, which can benefit the infant immune system and promote healthy gut bacteria. This breakthrough could allow for infant formula that closely mimics the health advantages of breastfeeding. Currently, only a few HMOs can be produced for baby formulas, but this new approach aims to make a wider range of HMOs more accessible. The genetically modified plants successfully produced 11 known HMOs, including LNFP1, associated with reducing infections in infants. The researchers believe this technology could also be applied to create more nutritious non-dairy plant milk for adults and potentially lead to HMO-based medicines. The development opens up possibilities for tailored plant-based products that could enhance human health in various ways.
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