IIT Roorkee Researchers Unveil Breakthrough Study on Mother’s Milk as a Probiotic Delivery Vehicle

Roorkee, Uttarakhand, February 25, 2025: Researchers at the Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee (IIT Roorkee) have published a groundbreaking study in the prestigious Food Chemistry journal, which explores the potential of fat globules in human mother’s milk as a delivery vehicle for probiotics. This innovative research is poised to have significant implications for infant health and the development of functional foods, aligning with the Government of India's vision for promoting health and wellness through advanced scientific research.
 
The study, led by Prof. Kiran Ambatipudi, Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering at IIT Roorkee, demonstrates how the Milk Fat Globule Membrane (MFGM), a bioactive component in maternal milk, can be used as a protective matrix to deliver probiotic bacteria to infants. These probiotics play a crucial role in shaping the gut microbiome, particularly in premature infants, thereby enhancing their overall health and immunity.
 
"Mother's milk is not just a source of nutrition; it is a medium through which beneficial bacteria are transferred from mother to child, aiding in the development of a healthy gut microbiome," said Prof. Ambatipudi. "Our study provides new evidence that MFGM-encapsulated probiotics can protect these bacteria from the environment of the stomach and intestines, allowing them to interact effectively with the intestinal microbiota."
 
The research highlights the synergistic interaction between probiotics and the milk membrane matrix, demonstrating protective effects against oxidative stress and proposing a natural delivery vehicle for targeted food applications. This breakthrough could pave the way for developing functional infant formulas that not only nourish but also protect and enhance the infant’s microbiome, thereby improving overall health outcomes.
 
"This remarkable study exemplifies IIT Roorkee's dedication to pioneering research that addresses critical health challenges. By exploring the natural mechanisms within mother’s milk, our researchers are contributing to a healthier future for infants globally, in alignment with the Government of India's vision for a healthier nation," said Prof. Kamal Kishore Pant, Director of IIT Roorkee.
 
This study looked at two types of good bacteria found in babies' poop and tested how well they could survive and benefit a baby’s gut. The researchers discovered that these bacteria can do a great job of settling in the gut and helping to keep it healthy. They also found that a special part of mother’s milk, called the milk fat globule membrane, can protect these good bacteria as they travel through the stomach and intestines.
 
By using advanced tools to closely examine the process, the study showed that this milk membrane helps the good bacteria survive longer and work better. It also helps protect against harmful bacteria and stress in the gut. This research suggests that by using this milk membrane to deliver probiotics, we could create better baby formulas that support a baby’s health and gut development.
 
This study is a testament to IIT Roorkee’s commitment to advancing scientific research that directly impacts public health, in line with the Government of India’s initiatives such as Ayushman Bharat and Atmanirbhar Bharat. By focusing on innovative health solutions that can be translated into practical applications, IIT Roorkee is contributing to the nation’s vision of a healthier and self-reliant India.