Lactoferrin-Enriched Infant Formula for Neuronal Protection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current infant feeding formulas do not adequately replicate the cognitive benefits of breast milk, particularly for premature or growth-restricted infants, and there is a need for a composition that can protect neuronal cells and enhance cognitive development.
Innovation Solution
A lactoferrin-enriched composition, which can be derived from various milk sources, is administered to protect neuronal cells and promote cognitive development by mimicking the neuroprotective effects of breast milk, potentially combined with sialic acid and iron, to support brain health and development.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If infant feeding formulas are designed to resemble mother's milk in composition, then nutritional adequacy is improved, but cognitive development benefits are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the concentration parameter of lactoferrin in the formula by adding it as a specific ingredient at defined levels (0.1-10 mg/mL), transforming a standard nutritional formula into one with enhanced neuroprotective properties that replicates the cognitive benefits of breast milk
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a composite nutritional composition by combining lactoferrin with sialic acid and iron in specific ratios, forming a synergistic mixture that provides both nutritional adequacy and the cognitive development benefits observed in breastfed infants
2Reliability
If lactoferrin is added to infant formula, then neuronal protection is improved, but formulation complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent leverages the multi-functionality of lactoferrin, which provides antimicrobial activity, iron transport, and neuronal protection simultaneously, allowing a single ingredient addition to address multiple infant health needs rather than requiring separate additives for each function
3Reliability
If breast feeding is recommended for all infants, then cognitive advantages are improved, but feasibility decreases for some mothers
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates an artificial copy of the neuroprotective components of breast milk by adding lactoferrin, sialic acid, and iron to formula, replicating the cognitive benefits of breastfeeding without requiring mothers to breastfeed, thus making the cognitive advantage accessible to all infants regardless of feeding method
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention relates generally to the field of brain development and brain health. One embodiment of the present invention relates to a composition that can be used for the treatment or prevention of a delayed brain development and/or a delayed development of the nervous system. Also cognitive performance can be increased.