Galatea

The composition of breast milk varies from woman to woman and over time; for preterm infants, in particular, tailored nutritional plans are needed, but these are currently difficult to calibrate with precision. GALATEA is a pioneering project that addresses this complexity by bringing together computational modeling, bioinformatics, clinical neonatology, and experimental laboratory techniques—cell culture bioreactors, metabolomics, proteomics—within a single interdisciplinary consortium.

Objectives

• Create a sophisticated simulation platform that reflects the complex biochemical composition of breast milk
• Develop personalized nutrition plans for infants, particularly those born prematurely
• Conduct experimental laboratory work using bioreactors, metabolomics, and proteomics to complement computational modeling
• Foster interdisciplinary learning among participating organizations through a dedicated mobility program
• Deepen the understanding of human milk, also to advance infant formula formulations
• Build a strong and lasting research community dedicated to neonatal nutrition