Lacto-N-tetraose

Lacto-N-Tetraose Structure

Lacto-N-tetraose

Lacto-N-tetraose is a type of oligosaccharide that is commonly found in human milk. It belongs to the group of human milk oligosaccharides (HMOs), which are complex sugars that play a crucial role in infant nutrition and health.

Structure

Lacto-N-tetraose is composed of four sugar units linked together in a specific arrangement. It is a tetrasaccharide consisting of galactose, N-acetylglucosamine, and fucose residues. The structure of Lacto-N-tetraose is important for its biological functions and interactions within the body.

Biological Functions

Lacto-N-tetraose serves as a prebiotic, promoting the growth of beneficial bifidobacteria in the infant gut. It also plays a role in shaping the infant's immune system and protecting against pathogens. Additionally, Lacto-N-tetraose has been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties and may contribute to overall gut health.

Importance in Infant Nutrition

As a component of human milk, Lacto-N-tetraose is essential for the development of a healthy gut microbiome in infants. It provides nourishment for beneficial bacteria in the gut, helping to establish a balanced microbial community. The presence of Lacto-N-tetraose in human milk highlights the unique and complex nature of breast milk as the ideal source of nutrition for infants.

Research and Applications

Research on Lacto-N-tetraose continues to uncover its various biological functions and potential applications. Scientists are exploring its role in infant health, as well as its potential therapeutic uses in areas such as gut health and immune modulation. Understanding the mechanisms of action of Lacto-N-tetraose may lead to the development of novel nutritional supplements or therapeutic interventions.