Serum ghrelin is associated with early feeding readiness but not growth in premature infants.

Background: Feeding tolerance among premature infants is unpredictable using clinical parameters. Ghrelin, a peptide hormone, acts on the hypothalamus to increase hunger and gut motility. It is present in fetal tissues, promotes intestinal maturation, and is secreted in milk.

Is the Antioxidant Capacity of Stored Human Milk Preserved?

In the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) expressed mothers' milk usually is stored frozen until used. We found that when human milk was stored at -20°C for up to 9 months there were reduced bacterial counts and pH, increased free fatty acids, but unchanged immune proteins. Antioxidant protection is an important benefit of human milk.

Lipid peroxidation products as predictors of oxidant-mediated disease in preterm infants.

Background: Preterm infants are susceptible to "oxygen radical diseases" (ORD). 8-isoprostane (8-IP) is a bioactive eicosanoid generated by reactive oxygen species-catalyzed peroxidation of arachidonic acid. Malondialdehyde (MDA) is generated by the decomposition of oxidant-induced lipid hydroperoxides.

Relationship Between Milk Fat Globule-Epidermal Growth Factor 8 and Intestinal Cytokines in Infants Born Preterm.

Objectives: To investigate the relationships between dietary intake and fecal concentrations of milk fat globule-epidermal growth factor 8 (MFG-E8), and between fecal concentrations of MFG-E8 and markers of intestinal inflammation in infants born preterm.

Study Design: Fecal samples were collected daily and enteral feedings were sampled weekly. MFG-E8 in enteral feedings and feces, and cytokine concentrations in feces were quantified by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay.

Does Human Milk Fortifier Affect Intestinal Inflammation in Preterm Infants?

Fecal calprotectin, a recognized marker of intestinal inflammation, is derived from neutrophil migration to a site of inflammation. Introduction of bovine-based human milk fortifier containing intact protein in preterm infants is associated with an increase in fecal calprotectin suggestive of intestinal inflammation. Newer fortifiers contain protein hydrolysates in place of intact protein.