Study progress of breast milk stem cells / 中华实用儿科临床杂志

ABSTRACT

The immense potency of bioactive molecules of human breast milk and importance of breastfeeding is known worldwide.Less attention has been paid on the cellular constituents and properties of breast milk.In the past decade,a research has been done by multidimensional approach to investigat the cells human milk.Technological advances have played an important role in this work,which has resulted in the breakthrough discovery of breast milk stem cells with self renewal and multilineage potentials.Regenerative medicine may benefit from utilizing these cells.Breast milk stem cells are transferred to the offspring during breastfeeding.This contributes substantially to infant health.This review summarizes the current knowledge on the potential of breast milk stem cells,with emphasis on their origin,properties and future applications.