In a groundbreaking study published in the journal Nature, researchers at NYU Grossman School of Medicine have discovered how a newborn’s cry triggers the release of breast milk in mothers. For decades, parents have wondered about the connection between a baby’s cry and milk production. The study reveals that the sound of a baby’s cry activates oxytocin, a brain chemical responsible for controlling milk production. This hormonal response lasts for approximately five minutes, enabling mothers to comfortably feed their babies. The researchers also found that this mechanism only occurs in mother mice and not in females who have never given birth. Understanding this process could potentially lead to interventions to support breastfeeding in human mothers who face challenges. Funding for the study was provided by National Institutes of Health grants and other sources.
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Study Background
Understanding the mechanisms behind breastfeeding has always been a topic of interest for parents and scientists alike. One aspect of this process that has puzzled researchers for decades is how a baby’s cry triggers the flow of breastmilk in mothers. In a study conducted by researchers at NYU Grossman School of Medicine, a groundbreaking discovery has been made regarding the connection between a newborn’s cry and the release of breastmilk in mothers.
Previous observations have shown that a baby’s cry stimulates the release of breastmilk in mothers. However, the specific mechanisms involved in this phenomenon were not well understood until now. The researchers found that when a mouse pup cries, sound information is transmitted to a specific area of its mother’s brain called the posterior intralaminar nucleus of the thalamus (PIL). From there, signals are sent to oxytocin-releasing neurons in the hypothalamus, which controls hormone activity.
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Groundbreaking Discovery
The study revealed that the sound of a baby’s cry triggers the release of oxytocin, a brain chemical responsible for controlling milk production. This flood of hormones lasts for approximately five minutes, allowing mothers to feed their babies until they are satisfied. The duration of oxytocin release plays a crucial role in ensuring that mothers have enough time to provide sufficient milk for their infants.
Mechanisms in Mouse Model
To understand the mechanisms involved in the connection between a baby’s cry and oxytocin release, the researchers conducted experiments using a mouse model. They found that the transmission of sound information to the brain plays a vital role in initiating the release of oxytocin. Specifically, the posterior intralaminar nucleus of the thalamus (PIL) acts as a relay station for sound signals, which are then transmitted to oxytocin-releasing neurons in the hypothalamus.
Activation of Oxytocin Neurons
Normally, the oxytocin-releasing neurons in the hypothalamus are inhibited to prevent unnecessary milk release. However, the study found that after 30 seconds of continuous crying, signals from the posterior intralaminar nucleus of the thalamus (PIL) overpower the inhibitory proteins and trigger oxytocin release. This activation of oxytocin neurons allows for the milk to be released, thus enabling breastfeeding.
Species-Specific Response
The study also revealed that the oxytocin boost only occurs in mother mice and not in females who have never given birth. This suggests that there is a species-specific response to a baby’s cry, which further emphasizes the unique bond between mothers and their offspring. Additionally, the researchers found that the mother’s brain only responds to her pups’ cries and not computer-generated tones designed to mimic natural cries. This indicates that there are specific cues in a baby’s cry that elicit the release of oxytocin.
Measurement of Oxytocin Release
To measure the release of oxytocin in real-time, the researchers utilized a molecular sensor called iTango. This sensor allowed them to directly monitor the levels of oxytocin during breastfeeding. This method of measurement is a significant improvement over previous indirect measurement methods, as it provides more accurate and precise data on oxytocin release.
Impact on Parenting Behavior
The study also investigated how the activation of oxytocin neurons and the release of oxytocin affect parenting behavior. By chemically blocking the communication between the posterior intralaminar nucleus of the thalamus (PIL) and oxytocin neurons in mother mice, the researchers observed a change in caregiving behavior. The mother mice eventually stopped fetching their young when they strayed or were removed from the nest. However, when the system was turned back on, the mothers pushed through their fatigue and continued caring for the infants. This highlights the importance of oxytocin in promoting caregiving behavior in mothers.
Potential Implications for Human Mothers
While this study was conducted using a mouse model, the findings have potential implications for human mothers as well. Understanding how the oxytocin system works in our own species could lead to new interventions to support breastfeeding in human mothers. For those who struggle with breastfeeding, this research could provide valuable insights into how to stimulate milk production and facilitate the breastfeeding process.
Limitations of the Study
It is important to note that this study focused on measuring hormone release, specifically oxytocin, and did not directly measure lactation itself. The researchers primarily aimed to understand the mechanisms behind the connection between a baby’s cry and the release of breastmilk. Future studies could explore the relationship between hormone release and lactation to provide a more comprehensive understanding of breastfeeding.
Additionally, it is worth noting that the study was funded by various sources, including National Institutes of Health grants. The funding sources could potentially influence the research outcomes and should be taken into consideration when interpreting the results.
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These related articles provide additional information on various aspects of breastfeeding and breast milk, further expanding the knowledge and understanding of this essential process for infant development.
In conclusion, the groundbreaking discovery made by researchers at NYU Grossman School of Medicine sheds light on the mechanisms behind the connection between a baby’s cry and the release of breastmilk in mothers. This study provides valuable insights into the role of oxytocin and the specific brain circuitry involved in breastfeeding. The findings have potential implications for human mothers and could lead to interventions to support breastfeeding and facilitate the bonding between mothers and their infants.
