Mammary Lactogenesis Mechanism, Factors and Effects Towards Human Milk Long-Chain Fatty Acids (HM LC-PUFA)

Abstract

Lactogenesis is a crucial physiological process involving the synthesis of human milk, rich in bioactive lipids that support infant development. Among these, long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (LC-PUFAs) such as DHA and ARA are essential for neurodevelopment and visual acuity. The mammary gland contributes significantly to milk fat composition through de novo lipogenesis (DNL), which synthesizes short- and medium-chain fatty acids while also influencing the incorporation and modification of LC-PUFAs. Understanding how DNL is regulated and how its disruption affects maternal and infant health is critical for advancing lactation science.