Evaluation of a Novel Recombinant Human Protein Formula Compared to Donor Human Milk and Standard Formula in Neonatal Piglets

Background: Despite advancements in infant nutrition, there remains a gap in the nutritional composition and bioactive ingredients between infant formula and human milk. Researchers have developed a novel infant formula (H1) containing recombinant human milk proteins. The objective of this study was to assess the impact of H1 on organ growth and development, as well as intestinal function, when compared to donor human milk (DHM) and standard infant formula (S) in a term piglet model.

Methods: The study involved term piglets delivered via cesarean section. The piglets were fed either a control group of donor human milk (DHM), the investigational formula (H1), or standard infant formula (S) for a duration of 10 days. On the 10th day, blood samples and tissues were collected from the piglets for analysis.

Results: The study observed no significant difference (P ≥ 0.05) in piglet growth among the three groups. However, H1 piglets were found to have smaller relative stomachs and livers compared to DHM and S piglets. In terms of serum bile acid levels, H1 piglets exhibited higher levels (P < 0.05) compared to both DHM and S piglets. Additionally, H1 piglets displayed either similar (P ≥ 0.05) or higher (P < 0.05) or lower (P < 0.05) serum bile acid levels compared to DHM and S piglets.