> Growth factor in baby formula could reduce necrotizing enterocolitis, most
> devastating GI disease in preemies
> 03 Apr 2005
> Medical News Today
> Could it be that the most widespread and devastating gastrointestinal disease
> affecting premature babies could be conquered simply by adding a common
> polypeptide, epidermal growth factor (EGF), to infant formula? And if so,
> exactly how does it work, and why?
> Necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) affects some 10,000 infants annually in the
> U.S., and over 90% are formula-fed before onset of NEC. At greatest risk are
> small, premature infants, and infants fed concentrated formulas. Estimates of
> mortality vary widely, up to 40%. International rates of incidence and
> mortality are thought to be similar.
> Although there is no effective treatment, the incidence of NEC among
> formula-fed babies is estimated at six to 10 times higher than breast-fed
> babies, indicating important direct benefits of mother's milk.
> "Using a neonatal animal model of NEC, we have shown that when one protein
> found in breast milk epidermal growth factor (EGF) is added to formula, the
> incidence of NEC decreases by 50% compared to animals fed formula alone,"
> Jessica A. Clark, the lead author in a research study at the Department of
> Pediatrics, University of Arizona, said.
<snip>

http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/medicalnews.php?newsid=22186

Or also http://bfnews.blogspot.com

-- Jodine Chase

             ***********************************************

To temporarily stop your subscription: set lactnet nomail
To start it again: set lactnet mail (or digest)
To unsubscribe: unsubscribe lactnet
All commands go to [log in to unmask]

The LACTNET mailing list is powered by L-Soft's renowned
LISTSERV(R) list management software together with L-Soft's LSMTP(R)
mailer for lightning fast mail delivery. For more information, go to:
http://www.lsoft.com/LISTSERV-powered.html