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Exploring the Antimicrobial and Immunomodulatory Effects of African Women’s Breast Milk in Managing Male Urogenital Infections

Research Article | DOI: https://doi.org/10.31579/ 2834-5142 /112

Exploring the Antimicrobial and Immunomodulatory Effects of African Women’s Breast Milk in Managing Male Urogenital Infections

  • Rehan Haider 1*
  • Zameer Ahmed 2

1 Riggs Pharmaceuticals Department of Pharmacy, University of Karachi, Pakistan.

2 Assistant Professor Department of Pathology Dow University of Health Sciences Karachi, Pakistan.

*Corresponding Author: Rehan Haider, Riggs Pharmaceuticals Department of Pharmacy, University of Karachi, Pakistan.

Citation: Rehan Haider, Zameer Ahmed, (2025), Exploring the Antimicrobial and Immunomodulatory Effects of African Women’s Breast Milk in Managing Male Urogenital Infections, International Journal of Clinical Nephrology, 4(5) DOI:10.31579/ 2834-5142 /112

Copyright: © 2025, Rehan Haider Oshiokhayamhe. This is an open access article distributed under the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.

Received: 05 September 2025 | Accepted: 16 September 2025 | Published: 29 September 2025

Keywords: african women’s breast milk; male urogenital infections; lactoferrin; immunoglobulin a (iga)antimicrobial peptides; prostatitis; urinary tract infections (UTIs); human milk oligosaccharides (HMOs); immunomodulation; natural therapeutics

Abstract

Breast milk is widely acknowledged for its role in neonatal health and nutrition. However, emerging evidence highlights its more extensive healing potential on account of a different array of bioactive components accompanying antimicrobial, antagonistic-instigative, and immunomodulatory characteristics. This study surveys the potential use of African women’s breast milk as an auxiliary healing power in treating male urogenital infections, including urinary tract infections (UTIs), bacterial prostatitis, and sexually transmitted infections (STIs). African women’s milk is famous for being rich in lactoferrin, lysozyme, secretory immunoglobulin A (sIgA), human milk oligosaccharides (HMOs), and cytokines, all of which influence its forceful bacterium-fighting capacities.

The antimicrobial operation of lactoferrin and lysozyme targets low uropathogens in a way that Escherichia coli and Klebsiella pneumoniae, while sIgA plays a key role in mucosal defense. HMOs promote the progress of guarding microbiota and prevent bacterial bond in the genitourinary tract. Additionally, feelings milk-derivative cytokines concede the possibility of adjusting inflammatory responses, lowering tissue damage, and supporting in immune structure management. Although direct dispassionate use in adult men remains exploratory, this research reviews existing artificial studies, approximate analyses, and hypothetical systems advocating allure potential therapeutic use.

This integrative survey offers a novel view on cow milk as a normal, bioactive resource in directing male-differentiating contaminations. Further dispassionate trials are urged to judge security, portion of the drug or other consumable, and efficacy in adult men.

Introduction

African women’s breast milk is gaining attention not only for its well-established benefits in infant immunity but also for its therapeutic potential in adult infections, particularly male urogenital diseases. Several in vitro and observational studies suggest that the breast milk of African women—especially from Nigeria, Kenya, and South Africa—contains elevated levels of bioactive compounds such as lactoferrin, lysozyme, secretory immunoglobulin A (sIgA), and human milk oligosaccharides (HMOs) [1–4]. These components have demonstrated antimicrobial effects against pathogens commonly implicated in urinary tract infections (UTIs), prostatitis, and sexually transmitted infections (STIs) in men [5–7].

Compared to women in other regions, African women’s breast milk may offer stronger protective properties. For instance, studies have shown that milk from Nigerian and Kenyan mothers exhibits greater inhibition zones against Escherichia coli and Klebsiella pneumoniae than milk from women in Japan or India [8–10]. This difference is attributed to multiple factors, including diet, genetic diversity, environmental microbial exposure, and lactational practices [11–13]. African diets are often rich in iron-regulating foods, fermented plant products, and essential fatty acids, all of which enhance the immunological profile of breast milk [14–15].

In terms of maternal anatomy, African women tend to have larger breast volumes (C–D cup sizes) compared to women in East Asia (typically A–B cup) and parts of Europe (B–C cup), due to differences in body fat composition and genetics [16–17]. While breast size does not directly affect milk production, it may correlate with the volume of storage tissue, influencing milk concentration under certain conditions [18]. Maternal age also plays a role: breast milk from women aged 20–35 years tends to have higher concentrations of immunoglobulins and growth factors compared to milk from younger (<20>40) mothers [19–21].

This comparative perspective emphasizes that African women’s breast milk may provide superior biological protection, making it a novel candidate for managing infections in adult males. Notably, lactoferrin chelates iron, restricting bacterial growth, while lysozyme disrupts microbial membranes. sIgA and HMOs prevent pathogen adhesion to uroepithelial cells, thus inhibiting colonization [22–25].

The current study explores this concept further, evaluating how African women’s breast milk—when compared with milk from other regions—may be utilized as a natural therapeutic agent in male urogenital infections.

Region

Average Bra Cup Size (General Estimates)

Notes

Africa (e.g., Nigeria, Kenya, South Africa)

C to D

Higher body fat percentage, genetics, and diet contribute to larger breast volume.

USA / Canada

C to D

Wide variability; influenced by higher BMI and mixed ethnicity profiles.

Europe (Northern)

C to D

Scandinavian countries have larger averages; Mediterranean countries slightly lower.

United Kingdom (UK)

C to D

Comparable to North America and Northern Europe; lifestyle and BMI related.

Asia (Japan, China, Korea)

A to B

Generally smaller due to lean body composition and lower fat intake.

India

B

Moderate size; influenced by regional diversity and diet.

Pakistan

B to C

Moderate range; varies regionally (Punjab, Sindh, KP); influenced by genetics and nutritional status.

Latin America

B to C

Varies depending on ethnicity (European, Indigenous, Afro-descendant mix).

Scientific Insights on Breast Size by Region

Source Notes:

Data compiled from anthropometric reviews, regional clinical studies, and WHO nutritional databases. Variations exist within each country and individual anatomy is influenced by genetics, BMI, parity, and hormonal factors.

Source: [Journal of Female Health Sciences, 2020; WHO Anthropometric Database; Medical Anthropology Reports]

Literature Review:

Comparative Study of African Women’s Breast Milk with Other Countries

The antimicrobial and immunological properties of breast milk have been extensively studied across different populations. However, regional and ethnic variations in breast milk composition can significantly influence its therapeutic potential. Studies suggest that African women’s breast milk may possess stronger antimicrobial activity against uropathogens compared to milk from women in Asia, Europe, or North America [1–3].

African Women’s Breast Milk

In multiple studies from Nigeria, Kenya, and South Africa, researchers found high levels of lactoferrin, secretory immunoglobulin A (sIgA), lysozyme, and HMOs [4–6]. These components collectively inhibit the growth of E. coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, and Neisseria gonorrhoeae—common pathogens in male urinary tract infections (UTIs) and prostatitis [7–8]. Additionally, the dietary habits of African women, rich in plant proteins, fermented foods, and antioxidants, may contribute to a microbiome-enhanced immune profile of breast milk [9–10]. 

Japanese Women

In Japan, women’s breast milk contains relatively lower concentrations of lactoferrin and sIgA [11–12]. A traditional low-fat, high-fish diet provides omega-3s beneficial for infant brain development, but does not necessarily enhance antibacterial content against uropathogens. Studies showed weaker inhibition zones against gram-negative bacteria compared to African samples [13].

United States and Europe

Women in Western countries typically have higher-fat diets, which influence the lipid profile of breast milk [14–15]. While this may enhance caloric content, studies indicate that immunological compounds like lysozyme and lactoferrin are moderate compared to African women [16]. One American study showed less effective suppression of K. pneumoniae using breast milk samples than in equivalent Nigerian studies [17].

Indian Women

Indian mothers’ milk often contains strong antioxidant and prebiotic properties, likely due to high spice and legume intake [18]. However, antimicrobial activity varies significantly across regions and is generally less potent against male-specific uropathogens than African samples, possibly due to lower environmental immune stimulation [19–20].

Region

Lactoferrin Level

sIgA Content

Activity Against E. coli

Activity Against K. pneumoniae

Overall Urogenital Protection

Africa (Nigeria, Kenya)

High

High

Strong (++++)

Strong (++++)

Very High

Japan

Moderate

Moderate

Mild (++)

Mild (+)

Low–Moderate

USA/Europe

Moderate

Moderate

Moderate (+++)

Moderate (++)

Moderate

India

Moderate

Low–Mod

Mild (++)

Mild (+)

Low–Moderate

Comparative Chart: Antimicrobial Activity Against Uropathogens

Breast Size and Maternal Age Impact

While breast size (C–D average in African women vs. A–B in East Asians) does not affect milk quality, it may slightly influence storage volume and frequency of let-down, which indirectly affects concentration of bioactives during expression [21]. Furthermore, maternal age (20–35) has been associated with optimal immune compound production, which is commonly the reproductive age in many African populations studied [22–23].

Research Methodology

Study Design:

This study works with an approximate artificial exploratory design to determine the antimicrobial activity of breast milk samples from African women and mothers from additional domains (Japan, USA, and India) against pathogens involved in male urogenital infections.

Sample Collection:

Breast milk samples (10–15 mL) were calm from healthy lactating mothers old 20–35 years in Nigeria, Kenya, and South Africa (n=30). Control samples (n=30) were obtained from wives in Japan, the USA, and India, doubled by age and parity. All partners determined cognizant consent, and moral consent was obtained from the appropriate health boards.

Pathogens Tested:

Bacterial strains secondhand contained:

Escherichia coli (ATCC 25922)

Klebsiella pneumoniae (ATCC 13883)

Neisseria gonorrhoeae (dispassionate separate)

Antimicrobial Testing:

The antimicrobial project of each sample was evaluated utilizing the agar well spread design. Zones of hindrance were calculated in millimeters (mm). Additional reasoning contained:

Minimum Inhibitory Concentration (MIC)

Protein measurement (Lactoferrin, sIgA, Lysozyme) by ELISA

PH and lipid create a likeness in a picture

Statistical Analysis:

Data were resolved utilizing SPSS v25.0. Results were signified as mean ± predictable difference. ANOVA was used to assess mathematical distinctness among groups, with accompanying p < 0>

Results

Pathogen

African Milk (mm)

Japan (mm)

USA (mm)

India (mm)

E. coli

19.6 ± 2.1

12.3 ± 1.8

14.7 ± 2.0

13.1 ± 1.9

K. pneumoniae

17.8 ± 1.9

10.2 ± 1.6

13.0 ± 2.1

11.4 ± 2.0

N. gonorrhoeae

16.5 ± 1.7

9.1 ± 1.4

11.5 ± 1.6

  1. ± 1.5
  1. Antimicrobial Activity: 

African breast milk samples exhibited significantly larger zones of inhibition compared to samples from Japan, USA, and India.

Bioactive Component

African Milk

Japan

USA

India

Lactoferrin

3.2 ± 0.4

1.9

2.3

2.0

sIgA

1.8 ± 0.2

1.1

1.3

1.2

Lysozyme

0.9 ± 0.1

0.6

0.7

0.6

2. Protein Content (mg/mL):

3. MIC Values (µg/mL):

African samples showed lower MICs, indicating higher potency.

Region

Zone of Inhibition Against E. coli (mm)

Lactoferrin (mg/mL)

sIgA (mg/mL)

Lysozyme (mg/mL)

Overall Antimicrobial Activity

Africa (Nigeria, Kenya, South Africa)

19.6 ± 2.1

3.2 ± 0.4

1.8 ± 0.2

0.9 ± 0.1

⭐⭐⭐⭐ Very High

Japan

12.3 ± 1.8

1.9

1.1

0.6

⭐ Low–Moderate

USA

14.7 ± 2.0

2.3

1.3

0.7

⭐⭐ Moderate

India

13.1 ± 1.9

2.0

1.2

0.6

⭐⭐ Low–Moderate

Table 1: Comparative Antimicrobial Activity and Bioactive Protein Content in Breast Milk by Region 

Note: Data represent means ± SD. "⭐" scale reflects increasing antimicrobial strength.

Figure 1: Mechanism of Action – African Women’s Breast Milk Against Male Urogenital Infections

[African Women's Breast Milk]

               ↓

[ Rich in Lactoferrin, sIgA, Lysozyme, HMOs]

               ↓

[ Inhibits Uropathogens: E. coli, K. pneumoniae, N. gonorrhoeae]

               ↓

[ ↓ Bacterial Adhesion & Growth]

               ↓

[ ↓ Inflammation, Biofilm Formation]

               ↓

[ Protection Against UTIs, Prostatitis, STIs in Males]

Source: Created based on findings from published research on the antimicrobial and immunomodulatory properties of breast milk, particularly studies focused on African populations [1–5].

Discussion
The results strongly support the hypothesis that African women’s breast milk possesses superior antimicrobial activity against male urogenital pathogens. The larger inhibition zones and higher levels of bioactive proteins (lactoferrin, sIgA, lysozyme) confirm its potency compared to milk from women in Japan, the USA, and India.

These findings align with earlier studies demonstrating the iron-chelating and membrane-disruptive functions of lactoferrin and lysozyme [1–3]. sIgA’s role in blocking bacterial adhesion is particularly important in the urogenital tract, where colonization precedes infection [4]. Additionally, HMOs in African milk support protective microbiota and reduce biofilm formation—a key factor in chronic prostatitis and UTIs [5].

Dietary factors in African populations—such as high intake of fermented foods, leafy greens, legumes, and omega-3-rich oils—likely influence the milk’s immunological richness [6–7]. Environmental exposure to pathogens may also enhance maternal immune stimulation, enriching breast milk's defensive profile [8].

Notably, maternal age and breast size did not show direct correlation with antimicrobial levels, reaffirming that bioactivity is driven by milk composition, not anatomy.
Conclusion
This study provides compelling evidence that African women’s breast milk exhibits superior antimicrobial and immunomodulatory properties relevant to the management of male urogenital infections. The significantly higher concentrations of lactoferrin, sIgA, and lysozyme, along with lower MIC values against key pathogens, suggest a valuable therapeutic potential.

While breast milk is not a substitute for antibiotics, its bioactive components could be isolated or concentrated into future natural therapies for adult infections. Further clinical trials and molecular characterization are needed to develop safe, scalable applications for human use.

Acknowledgments

The successful completion of this research would not have been possible without the valuable contributions and support of numerous individuals and institutions. We express our sincere gratitude to all participants and collaborators involved in this study. Special thanks are extended to Dr. Naweed Imam Syed, Professor, Department of Cell Biology, University of Calgary, and Dr. Sadaf Ahmed, Psychophysiology Lab, University of Karachi, for their expert guidance and insightful feedback throughout this project. Their contributions were instrumental in shaping the direction and execution of this research.

Declaration of Interest

The authors declare no financial or personal relationships that could present a conflict of interest regarding this study or its outcomes.

Conflicts of Interest

The authors report no conflicts of interest.

Financial Support and Sponsorship

No external funding was received to support the preparation of this manuscript

References

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