LRF OCEHL Vision

Pillar 1: Lactation hormones and their mechanisms of action

Research aims to identify: a) hormones, metabolites and genes involved in lactation;  b) endocrine mechanisms regulating lactation; and c) the impact of the mode of delivery, geographical region, age, and preterm birth on maternal hormone concentrations.

Research projects include: The INSIGHT Study

Endpoints:  a) New knowledge about hormone action and b) hormone reference standards for women in different settings.

Pillar 2: Maternal health and lactation disorders

Research aims to identify: a) the impact of maternal co-morbidities and medications on the endocrine control of lactation particularly in low-resource settings, and b) the mechanisms by which lactation hormones influence long-term maternal health.

Research projects include: The INSIGHT Study

Endpoints:  a) Diagnostic tools and therapeutic strategies for lactation insufficiency and b) suggestions for strategies that address hormonal disorders affecting human lactation.

Pillar 3: Lactation hormones and infant development  

Research aims to identify: a) the range of hormones and bioactive molecules in human milk; b) the influence of human milk hormones on infant development; and c) mechanisms of milk hormone action in infants.

Research projects include: The NECTAR Study

Endpoints: Suggestions for interventions and policies for promoting infant health.

Our research into the biology of lactation will contribute to the following Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): SDG2 - Zero hunger, and SDG3 - Good health and well-being.