Scientists at Vanderbilt University have discovered that sugars found in human breast milk may hold the key to alleviating some of the severe side effects of chemotherapy. In a study published in the journal Cellular and Molecular Gastroenterology and Hepatology, researchers identified a sugar called 2'-fucosyllactose that showed potential in protecting stomach lining cells and reducing damage caused by chemotherapy-induced mucositis.

Chemotherapy is known to cause debilitating side effects, with severe stomach sickness being one of the most common. Steven Townsend, a chemistry professor at Vanderbilt University, shared that the discovery of molecules in breast milk that can prevent chemotherapy-induced sickness is a significant step towards treating patients without causing additional harm.

The study conducted by Townsend and his colleague, Fang Yan, involved mice with induced mucositis. The researchers found that administering 2'-fucosyllactose successfully prevented the death of stomach-lining cells in these mice. If the sugars were to be given to patients alongside chemotherapy, it is believed that it could provide relief by reducing the frequency and severity of side effects such as diarrhea.

However, the potential benefits of breast milk sugars are not limited to cancer patients. Townsend shared a personal experience where his wife suffered from severe side effects after taking the antibiotic vancomycin. He believes that there may be substances present in breast milk that can protect against such side effects while still effectively combating infections.

Breast milk contains a unique combination of sugars that support the growth of beneficial bacteria and may also possess antimicrobial properties. These sugars have been shown to prevent the formation of bacterial biofilms, including those responsible for dental plaque. The research suggests that breast milk sugars could be used in various industries, including shipping, to combat biofilm-related problems.

While researchers have already started incorporating these sugars into formula milk to mimic the breast milk microbiome, there are limitations in terms of scale and complexity. Townsend envisions the development of enzymes and engineered microbes for mass production of these sugars. However, he acknowledges that truly replicating the complexity and personalized nature of breast milk may not be achievable.

Looking forward, Townsend aims to explore the potential of these sugars in treating various illnesses, particularly those affecting the stomach, such as Crohn's disease, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), and celiac disease.

The discovery of the therapeutic potential of breast milk sugars opens up new possibilities for managing the side effects of chemotherapy and improving treatment outcomes. As scientists continue to study these sugars and their applications, it remains to be seen how they can be further utilized to benefit human health.

If you have a science story tip or questions about breast milk sugars, you can reach out to Newsweek at science@newsweek.com.