Pediatric Research published the full results of the ASSIGN trial (registration number NTR3979) showing that the first hypoallergenic amino acid-based formula (AAF) brings the gut microbiota of infants with cow’s milk allergy (CMA) closer to that of healthy breastfed infants. The formula has been previously clinically shown in CMA infants to effectively resolve food allergy symptoms and to support adequate growth and development (Harvey et al (2014); Burks et al (2015)).
The objective of the ASSIGN study was to assess the effect of an AAF with a specific synbiotic blend on gut microbiota diversity in infants with suspected gastrointestinal non-IgE mediated cow’s milk allergy. Bifidobacteria and clostridia are key bacteria strains of the gut microbiota. ASSIGN study results show that faecal levels of bifidobacteria and clostridium cluster XIVa, in infants with non-IgE CMA became closer to those of the healthy reference group. The ASSIGN publication concludes the hypoallergenic AAF used in the trial brings the gut microbiota closer to that of healthy breastfed infants.
The ASSIGN study also confirms the efficacy of an AAF in eliminating allergic symptoms.
Dr. Louise Michaelis from the Great North Children’s Hospital, Newcastle-upon-Tyne, UK: “ASSIGN signals the next step in the dietary management of CMA, going beyond the resolution of the acute allergic symptoms actively training the immune system in a safe way at the same time. We continue collaborative research to be able to build the best and ‘state of the art’ approach in dietary management of food allergies.”