Viability of infectious viral particles of HIV and BMCs in breast milk

Background Infectious factors in breast milk such as viral particles and living infected cells are of prime importance in the transmission of HIV by breastfeeding. Objectives To perform effective approaches for reducing HIV transmission via breastfeeding, we investigated the biological importance of infectious viral particles and infected BMCs in breast milk. Study design Alteration of viral infectivity was monitored using a modified experimental infection assay that exploited the cytotoxicity of breast milk, and BMC viability was evaluated by flow-cytometric analysis. Results Infectious viral particles were found to decrease time-dependently after contact with breast milk, whereas BMCs showed prolonged survival in breast milk. Conclusions The biological importance of infected BMCs in breast milk for the transmission of HIV via breastfeeding was considered.