Synopsis
A recent study suggests that human breast milk could enhance corneal healing by promoting re-epithelialization and increasing cell division, potentially offering a natural treatment option for eye injuries.Key Takeaways
- Human breast milk may improve corneal wound healing.
- Enhanced re-epithelialization observed in animal studies.
- Higher Ki67 levels indicate increased cell proliferation.
- Potential similarities with serum tears treatment.
- Further research is necessary to understand the properties of breast milk.
New Delhi, Feb 8 (NationPress) A recent study indicates that human breast milk may significantly improve the healing of the cornea—the transparent outer layer at the front of the eye, essential for focusing light for clear vision.
The process of corneal wound healing is intricate, involving cell death, migration, proliferation, differentiation, and remodeling of the extracellular matrix.
Research conducted by ophthalmology experts at the University of Colorado revealed that when applied to damaged corneas in animal models, human breast milk resulted in enhanced re-epithelialization, a crucial stage in the healing process.
The eyes treated with human breast milk exhibited elevated levels of Ki67—a protein indicative of cell division. Rapid recovery is vital in such eye injuries as it helps avert infections that could lead to further harm.
Mark Petrash, a Professor of Ophthalmology at the university, stated, "The quicker the wound heals, the better it is. Human breast milk appears to promote this healing process."
Although the exact mechanisms by which breast milk aids recovery remain unclear, the research team suggests it may share properties with serum tears—a treatment derived from centrifuged blood that separates and sterilizes serum.
This serum includes elements such as proteins and growth factors akin to natural tears, marking it effective for patients suffering from severe dry eye and inflammatory eye conditions.
While the results, published in Current Eye Research, are encouraging, Petrash cautioned that this could merely represent "the tip of the iceberg," advocating for further exploration.
"Breast milk is incredibly complex. It contains sugars, carbohydrates, and lactose, along with numerous proteins that possess human growth factors and diverse biological properties. Understanding what makes breast milk therapeutically promising would be invaluable," he added.
