Cow’s Milk and Autoimmunity

Abstract

When a mother stops breastfeeding, the baby is given cow's milk-based baby foods. The prominent proteins found in cow's milk are frequently known to be significant allergens. Even though most allergies to such proteins are reversible, a small percentage of children will have them for the rest of their lives. Cow's milk allergy (CMA) develops in a protein-specific manner, resulting in a rapid or gradual immune response. The pathogenesis of cow's milk allergy is influenced by both innate and adaptive immunity. This pathogenesis is linked to the progressive increase in immune response due to T-helper 2 (Th2) cells, as well as the decrease in the functionality and density of regulatory T (Tregs) cells. This situation may contribute to the autoimmunity that is occurring as a result of the activation malfunction of T and B cells which are the principal agents of the immune system. Additionally, the inflammation which becomes chronic because of the CMA may contribute to a group of autoimmune diseases. This review aimed to better understand the relationship between cow’s milk and autoimmunity.

Cite this article as: Rodop BB, Sarı E, Erbaş O. Cow’s Milk and Autoimmunity. JEB Med Sci 2021;2(3):302-307.

The authors declared no conflicts of interest with respect to the authorship and/or publication of this article.

The authors received no financial support for the research and/or authorship of this article.