3-Fucosyllactose (3-FL)

Application

HMOs are essential bioactive components in human milk, offering numerous health benefits such as promoting gut health, enhancing immunity, supporting brain development, reducing inflammation, preventing infections, and potentially fighting cancer. They are widely used in infant formula, functional foods, and medical nutrition.

(1) Promotes Gut Health

HMOs act as prebiotics, selectively promoting the growth of beneficial bacteria (e.g., Bifidobacteria) and inhibiting the colonization of pathogens, thereby maintaining gut microbiota balance.

(2) Enhances Immune System

HMOs prevent pathogen infections by competing with pathogens for binding sites on gut cell surfaces. They also modulate immune cell functions and enhance immune responses.

(3) Supports Brain Development

Sialic acid-containing HMOs (e.g., 3'-SL and 6'-SL) are involved in neuronal formation and synaptic plasticity, playing a critical role in infant brain development.

(4) Anti-inflammatory Effects

HMOs reduce intestinal inflammation and alleviate symptoms of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).

(5) Prevents Infections

HMOs reduce the risk of infections by preventing pathogens (e.g., bacteria and viruses) from binding to host cells.

(6) Potential Anti-cancer Effects

Studies suggest that HMOs may have anti-cancer effects by modulating immune responses and inhibiting tumor cell growth.

References

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