Evidence supporting the use of: 2'-Fucosyllactose
For the health condition: Infection (viral)

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 3

2′-Fucosyllactose (2′-FL) is a prominent human milk oligosaccharide (HMO) that has garnered scientific interest for its potential to support the immune system, particularly in the context of viral infections. Evidence from both preclinical and clinical studies suggests that 2′-FL may help reduce the incidence or severity of certain viral infections, especially in infants.

The primary mechanism proposed involves 2′-FL acting as a soluble decoy receptor: many pathogenic viruses, such as norovirus and certain strains of rotavirus, bind to fucosylated glycans on the gut epithelium to initiate infection. 2′-FL, with its fucosylated structure, can mimic these glycans, binding to viruses in the intestinal lumen and thereby preventing them from attaching to and infecting host cells.

Several studies using in vitro and animal models have shown that 2′-FL inhibits the binding and infectivity of viruses like norovirus. Human clinical studies, primarily in infants, suggest that formula supplementation with 2′-FL is associated with reduced rates of respiratory and gastrointestinal infections compared to formula without HMOs, though data specific to viral pathogens remain somewhat limited. Additionally, 2′-FL may modulate gut microbiota and immune responses, further contributing to antiviral defenses.

Overall, while there is a growing body of scientific evidence supporting the potential antiviral benefits of 2′-FL, especially in early childhood, further large-scale, pathogen-specific clinical trials are needed to more clearly establish efficacy and mechanisms in humans.

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