Abstract:
This study aims to detect the presence and determine the amount of sIgA in fifteen fresh-then-stored human breast milk samples against Cronobacter sakazakii, Salmonella typhimurium, and Staphylococcus aureus. Moreover, this study aims to determine which between fresh and stored breast milk the better source of sIgA is, using titers as basis.
Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was used to detect the presence of sIgA against the bacteria. The amount, in titer, was determined using an established cutoff value.
Secretory IgA was detected against C. sakazakii, S. typhimurium, and S. aureus through ELISA. Mean titers of sIgA in fresh breast milk was higher than those in stored breast milk but a statistically significant difference was found only in those against S. typhimurium (t-test: p-value = 0.044). Comparison within the groups of fresh and stored breast milk through one-way ANOVA showed no significant differences.
Breast milk possesses a protective attribute against C. sakazakii, S. typhimurium, and S. aureus, as evidenced by the detection through ELISA, and this may serve as additional basis for recommendation of breast milk for infant consumption. SIgA amounts in the samples decreased after storage but a significant difference was found only in those against S. typhimurium. SIgA reaction to varying antigens was found to be consistent throughout all samples.
