The effect of enteral supplementation of neutral and acidic oligosaccharides on immunoglobulin free light chains in preterm infants

Introduction: Immunoglobulin free light chains (Igflc) may play a role in the pathogenesis of atopy. Prebiotics may decrease the risk to develop atopy.We hypothesise that prebiotics may decrease the serum concentration of Igflc. Therefore, we aimed to determine the effect of enteral supplementation of a prebiotic mixture consisting of neutral and acidic oligosaccharides (SCGOS/LCFOS/AOS) on Igflc in preterm infants. Methods: In a randomised controlled trial, preterm infants with a gestational age <32 weeks and/or birth weight <1500 g received enteral supplementation of SCGOS/LCFOS/AOS or placebo (maltodexe46 trin) between days 3-30 of life in a max dose 1.5 g/kg/day. Serum samples were taken at 12 months of age. Kappa and Labda Igflc were analysed by ELISA. Data were analysed by logistic regression analysis. Results: In total, 42 infants in the prebiotics and 41 infants in the placebo group were included. Baseline patient and nutritional characteristics were not different between both groups. There was no difference in both the Kappa and Labda Igflc between the prebiotics and placebo group (Beta 0.09, 95%CI - 0.16-0.40; p=0.41 and Beta 0.04, 95%CI - 0.22-0.30, respectively). Correction for possible confounding factors did not change the results. Conclusions: Enteral supplementation with a prebiotic mixture consisting of neutral and acidic oligosaccharides does not influence Igflc in preterm infants. If there is a correlation between Igflc and atopy in preterm infants will be further evaluated.