Is Lactoferrin Supplementation Beneficial for All Preterm Infants?

OBJECTIVE: Human milk (HM) has antibacterial properties due to the presence of immune-modulators, including lactoferrin (LF). This study will determine effect(s) of HM maturation, fortification, and storage conditions on LF levels and its antibacterial properties. STUDY DESIGN: HM samples (n = 30) were obtained from preterm and term mothers. The LF levels were analyzed by ELISA, and the antibacterial activity was measured after inoculation with Escherichia coli. RESULTS: The highest level of LF in preterm HM was observed in the first week of lactation. However, storage of preterm HM at 4°C decreased LF levels significantly. Both LF levels and antibacterial activity in preterm HM was lower compared with term HM, but significantly higher than donor HM even after HM-based fortification. LF supplementation of donor HM improved its antibacterial activity. CONCLUSION: Preterm infants fed donor HM, formula, or stored HM at 4°C may benefits from LF supplementation to improve HM antibacterial properties. KEY POINTS: · Milk LF levels vary with storage and maturity.. · Donor milk is deficient in LF even after adding HM-based fortification.. · Donor HM and formula fed infants may benefit from LF..