Effect of Lyophilization and Spray-Drying on Cytokine Levels and Antioxidant Capacity in Human Milk

Human milk is important for modulating the newborn's immune and antioxidant response. The applicability of lyophilization and spray-drying processes in human milk donated to human milk banks are alternatives for storage and distribution when breastfeeding is not possible. Therefore, the aim of this work was to detect and quantify cytokines (IFN-gamma, IL-4, IL-5, IL-10, IL-13, IL-17 A/F, IL-21, and IL-22) and to evaluate the antioxidant capacity in different phases of donated HM submitted to lyophilization and spray-drying processes. The HM donated in natura was submitted to pasteurization, lyophilization and spray-drying processes, then cytokine concentrations were measured using Luminex technology and antioxidant capacity of the superoxide dismutase and catalase enzymes and reduced glutathione levels in vitro. Cytokine profiles, catalase, superoxide dismutase and reduced glutathione profiles were preserved after processing of lyophilization and spray-drying in all phases of donated human milk.