When breastfeeding, babies receive short pieces of genetic material found in human milk called microRNA (miRNA), which are known to regulate gene expression. Human milk is one of the richest sources of miRNA in the human body, yet we know very little about how a mother’s health impacts miRNA profiles, and how this subsequently influences infant development. 

This project will use samples and data from women and their infants in the Philippines. Global Health Affiliated Faculty, Dr. Jeffrey Bailey (Pathology and Laboratory Medicine) and Dr. Jennifer Friedman (Pediatrics), are co-mentors.