Key Facts
- Protein
- Osteopontin
- Journal
- Cell
- Institution
- QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute
- Lead researcher
- Prof. Simon Phipps
- Drug mimicking effect
- Rosiglitazone
- Publication date
- August 4, 2026
Background
Researchers in Australia have identified how a protein in breastmilk supports infant immunity, according to a study published in the journal Cell. The protein, osteopontin, is found at high levels in breastmilk in the first weeks after childbirth.
The research, led by QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, reveals that osteopontin triggers a cascade of biological signals that support immune cell development in a baby's liver and lungs, helping protect against potentially deadly respiratory infections.
Current Situation
The findings were announced in a statement released Tuesday by QIMR Berghofer. Prof. Simon Phipps from the Respiratory Immunology Lab noted that when osteopontin was missing, infant lung cells lining the airways showed stark differences, describing it as 'like night and day.'
The team found that osteopontin affects the infant's microbiota composition, increasing production of bacterial metabolites that activate growth factors in the liver and lungs, strengthening the immune system. They also discovered that rosiglitazone, a type 2 diabetes drug, could mimic osteopontin's effects in preclinical models.
| Source | Osteopontin level |
|---|---|
| Human breastmilk | High |
| Cow's milk formula | Lower |
Impacts
The findings raise the possibility of developing new approaches to support infant immune development and could inform future improvements to infant formula products. While some infant formula contains cow's milk osteopontin, levels are lower than those found in human breastmilk.
Prof. Phipps said further tests are needed to determine whether osteopontin may also help prevent the onset of allergic diseases such as eczema and asthma. The study's implications could affect infant nutrition and respiratory health globally.
Future Outlook
Scenario analysis: The possibilities below are not certain predictions.
If further tests confirm the protective effects, osteopontin or rosiglitazone could be incorporated into formula or other interventions to boost infant immunity. This could reduce respiratory infections in infants, especially in settings where breastfeeding is not possible.
However, the research is at a preclinical stage, and it remains unclear whether these effects will translate to humans. If successful, new formula products could emerge, but regulatory approvals and clinical trials would be necessary.
The potential to prevent allergic diseases like eczema and asthma is speculative at this point, and more research is needed to establish any causal link.
Source: sydneysun.com
