Exploring hematopoietic stem cell population in human milk and its benefits for infants: A scoping review

Abstract

Objective: To comprehensively explore hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) in human milk, understanding their molecular markers, isolation methods, benefits for infants, and potential medical applications. Methods: We conducted a scoping literature review following the PRISMA-ScR guidelines. This review included studies investigating HSCs in human milk, utilizing molecular markers such as CD34+, CD113+, and CD117+ for characterization. Both in vitro and in vivo studies exploring the morphology, function, and clinical implications of these cells were considered. The diverse range of papers reviewed were indexed in PubMed, Science Direct, Scopus, Sage Journals, and Google Scholar, published between 2010 and 2023. Results: This scoping review explored 577 articles and selected 13 studies based on our inclusion criteria, focusing on HSCs in human milk. Most studies dilute samples prior to HSC isolation, followed by detection using markers such as CD34+, CD113+, and CD117+, with flow cytometry serving as the primary analysis tool, focusing on their isolation and detection methods. While no definitive benefits have been conclusively established, there is a strong belief in the potential of HSCs to positively impact infant immunity, growth, and tissue repair. Conclusions: This review presents significant evidence supporting the presence of HSCs in human milk, identified by markers such as CD34+, CD113+, and CD117+. These cells show considerable potential in enhancing infant health, including immunity, tissue repair, cognitive development, and gastrointestinal health. Despite methodological variations in isolation and detection techniques, the collective findings underscore the potential clinical relevance of HSCs in human milk. Moreover, this review highlights the non-invasive accessibility of human milk as a source of HSCs and emphasizes the need for further research to unlock their therapeutic potential.