Latest news with #ImmunoglobulinA
News18
08-08-2025
- Health
- News18
Breastfeeding And Immunity: How Breast Milk Protects Newborns From Infections
Last Updated: Breast milk performs a central function in the development and support of a newborn's immune system. It is loaded with antibodies, white blood cells, and essential nutrients. When it comes to protecting a newborn, nature has its own superpower – breast milk. Far more than just nutrition, it's a living, dynamic fluid that shapes a baby's immune system from the very first feed. 'Breast milk works as a first vaccine for babies at their most vulnerable time and provides protection against infection for a lifetime," says Dr. Kavitha Kovi, Head of Department – Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Aster Women & Children Hospital, Bengaluru. The earliest form of breast milk, colostrum, is often called liquid gold – and for good reason. Produced in the first two to three days after birth, this nutrient-rich, yellowish milk is packed with antibodies, white blood cells, and growth factors. 'Colostrum is one of the most powerful immune agents in breast milk," Dr. Kovi explains. 'It forms a blockade in the gut of the baby so harmful bacteria and viruses cannot cross over into the bloodstream." This initial dose doesn't just feed the baby – it fortifies them against infections at a time when they're most vulnerable. Antibodies Tailor-Made for the Baby's World One of breast milk's star defenders is secretory Immunoglobulin A (IgA), an antibody that coats the baby's respiratory and intestinal tracts. 'IgA antibodies are specific to the germs a mother encounters," Dr. Kovi notes. 'The first thing that happens when a mother is sick or exposed to illness is the production of IgA antibodies, and these are passed on to the baby through breast milk." This means the baby's immune protection is continually updated to match the environment they share with their mother. Breast milk is also rich in enzymes, beneficial bacteria, anti-inflammatory compounds, and hormones that nurture the infant's gut microbiome. 'A healthy gut is central to strong immunity," Dr. Kovi says. 'Infants breastfed up to one year are less susceptible to diarrhea, respiratory infections, and ear infections compared to formula-fed children." Long-Term Protection Against Chronic Illness The benefits of breastfeeding extend well beyond infancy. Studies have shown that breastfed children have a lower risk of developing asthma, allergies, type 1 diabetes, and other autoimmune conditions later in life. 'Autoimmune diseases take a back seat in children who were breastfed – and they respond amazingly well to vaccines," Dr. Kovi points out. Nature's Custom-Made Immunity Booster In essence, breast milk is a bespoke, immunity-boosting formula that no lab can replicate. 'Supporting and promoting breastfeeding, particularly in the first few months, is one of the most effective ways to give a child the best start in life," says Dr. Kovi. It's a gift from mother to child – a shield of antibodies, nutrients, and love. First Published: Disclaimer: Comments reflect users' views, not News18's. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.
Yahoo
01-07-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
FDA approves Takeda's Gammagard liquid ERC for primary immunodeficiency
The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved Takeda's new immunoglobulin (IG) therapy, Gammagard liquid ERC [immune globulin infusion (human)], to treat primary immunodeficiency (PI) in individuals aged two years and above. PI is typically caused by genetic mutations that can be passed down through families. Symptoms vary widely and often include recurring or long-lasting infections. Gammagard liquid ERC is the only ready-to-use liquid IG therapy with less than or equal to 2µ/ml two micrograms per millilitre of Immunoglobulin A (IgA) in a 10% solution, and can be administered either intravenously or subcutaneously. Takeda plasma-derived therapies business unit research and development senior vice-president and head Kristina Allikmets stated: 'The approval of Gammagard liquid ERC reinforces our commitment to supporting individualised treatment approaches for people with primary immunodeficiency, including a therapeutic option that has the lowest IgA content of any ready-to-use liquid immunoglobulin therapy, and can be administered intravenously or subcutaneously. 'Gammagard liquid ERC uses the same state-of-the-art manufacturing process as our other ready-to-use liquid immunoglobulin formulations and is aligned with our forward-looking strategy to prioritise reliable supply while offering a broad range of immunoglobulin therapies to address varied patient needs.' Takeda anticipates commencing commercialisation efforts for Gammagard liquid ERC in the US by 2026, with plans to follow suit in the European Union (EU) by 2027. Gammagard liquid ERC is approved under the brand name Deqsiga by the European Medicines Agency. In June 2025, the European Commission authorised Takeda's Adcetris (brentuximab vedotin), an antibody-drug conjugate, combined with chemotherapy for treating adults who are newly diagnosed with Stage IIb Hodgkin's lymphoma with risk factors or at Stage III/IV. "FDA approves Takeda's Gammagard liquid ERC for primary immunodeficiency" was originally created and published by Pharmaceutical Technology, a GlobalData owned brand. The information on this site has been included in good faith for general informational purposes only. It is not intended to amount to advice on which you should rely, and we give no representation, warranty or guarantee, whether express or implied as to its accuracy or completeness. You must obtain professional or specialist advice before taking, or refraining from, any action on the basis of the content on our site. Error while retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error while retrieving data Error while retrieving data Error while retrieving data Error while retrieving data
