Lactopontin in a simulated infant formula protein matrix promotes bone development via the gut–bone axis in growing rats
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Date
16/04/2026
Authors
Lyu, Yipin
Zhang, Jie
Cheng, Chi
Tang, Xue
Huang, Pantian
Liu, Feitong
Hu, Ruibiao
Huppertz, Thom
Wang, Xinyan
Zhou, Peng
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
MDPI
Published Version
Abstract
Background: Lactopontin (L-OPN) is a pivotal bioactive protein present in breast milk that supports bone development, but its efficacy in a formula matrix is unknown. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of L-OPN-fortified formula on bone growth in a growing rat model and to explore the underlying mechanisms. Methods: Weanling rats (n = 8/group) received daily gavage for four weeks: (1) CON—deionized water; (2) PRO—750 mg/kg·BW mixed protein; or (3) L-OPN—750 mg/kg·BW of the PRO formula fortified with L-OPN. Results: The results showed that the formula fortified with L-OPN could significantly increase bone volume and trabecular bone number (p < 0.05). Furthermore, both femur length and thickness, as well as overall body length, were significantly increased (p < 0.001). In addition, the L-OPN-fortified formula specifically increased the relative abundance of Bacteroides and Parabacteroides in rat feces (p < 0.05). Metabolomic analysis revealed that L-OPN supplementation significantly altered bile acid metabolism, notably increasing serum levels of 12-ketolithocholic acid (12-KLCA), which correlated strongly with bone metrics. Conclusions: These preclinical findings provide a basis for future research in infant formula.
Description
Keywords
Bile acid , Bone health , Lactopontin , Parabacteroides , [FoodNutritionalSciences]
Citation
Lyu, Y., Zhang, J., Cheng, C., Tang, X., Huang, P., Liu, F., Hu, R., Huppertz, T., Wang, X. and Zhou, P. (2026) 'Lactopontin in a simulated infant formula protein matrix promotes bone development via the gut–bone axis in growing rats', Nutrients, 18(8), 1265 (18pp). https://doi.org/10.3390/nu18081265