Behind fat and lactose (carbohydrate), HMOs are the third most abundant component in breast milk. These are special prebiotics that feed beneficial bacteria and play a positive role in the development of the infant immune system. HMOs cannot be broken down or digested by your child, but they are digested by the beneficial bacteria that reside in their gut.

There are around 200 different HMOs in breast milk, but the most abundant  one is 2'-FL HMO. A structurally identical version of the 2'-FL HMO that's present in breast milk can be found in certain Similac^® formulas.

"For parents who cannot or choose not to breastfeed, or those who need to supplement, using an infant formula with HMO 2'-fucosyllactose (2'-FL HMO) can help to support a baby's developing immune system similar to breastfed infants," says Buck.

When breastfeeding isn't an option, some mothers opt to pump breast milk for their preterm babies, which is often given to them through a feeding tube. This allows them to still receive the immune benefits of HMOs from their mother.

How Do HMOs Help With NEC Prevention?

On a cellular level, NEC may be caused by the enhanced expression of certain proteins involved in inflammation, called toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) in the intestines of  premature infants. New research suggests that two HMOs — 2'-FL and 6'-SL — bind to TLR4 and dramatically curb intestinal inflammation. Other research suggests that premature infants who aren't breastfed have a 2.4 times greater risk of developing necrotizing enterocolitis.

"We now know, for the first time, how HMOs protect against NEC — through toll-like receptor 4 inhibition," explains Buck. "This is a critical development that sets the stage for us to conduct additional research and testing with the goal of developing feeding interventions that incorporate these potentially lifesaving ingredients to combat this disease."

"Future HMO research looks very promising and Abbott is committed to advancing this rich area of science-based nutrition," says Buck.

What Does the Future of Preemie Nutrition Look Like?

"HMOs are potentially lifesaving ingredients with respect to near-term and longer-term health outcomes in this vulnerable population," explains Buck. Although HMOs are not currently available in Similac's premature infant formulas, this is an active area of research for Buck's team. "We are committed to optimizing these formulas based on clinical research in preterm infants," she adds.

If your baby is born prematurely, understanding that mother’s own breastmilk is best for your baby is key to delivering not only nutrients, but also HMOs and other immune-protective factors.  And since breastmilk protects against NEC, work closely with your baby’s physician and dietitian to understand how to support a good breastmilk supply, so that your preterm baby gets as much breastmilk as possible.