There is a patent application at the US Patent & Trademark Office that when
it becomes a patent we, IBCLCs, will have to understand, recognize, respect,
and acknowledge.  I think I already understand it.  It is patent application
20040137074 called "Osteoprotegerin in milk."  The inventors are Karine Vidal et
al. and it was filed in October 2003.
http://www.uspto.gov/patft/index.html

Karine Vidal works for Nestec--Nestle Research Center Switzerland.  In fact
she wrote a paper that was published in Pediatric Research called,
"Osteoprotegerin in Human Milk:  A potential Role in the Regulation of Bone Metabolism and
Immune Development."  This patent application pertains to osteoprotegerin
from milk sources, particularly human and bovine milk.  But most of the
application discusses human milk.  This component  will be used in preventing or
treating disorders with bone metabolism and immune function.  Just think we can
treat all those breastfed babies that get rickets with osteoprotegerin from
Nestle.  Or treat all those premies with osteorotegerin from Nestle who need calcium
supplementation.  (the patent application also suggests it may be put in
infant formula and in baby foods).  Have to acknowledge and respect Nestle for its
faith in human milk and what it can do.
Valerie W. McClain, breastfeeding advocate, "patent pending human bean"

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