S (Shiying) Shao, MSc

I am a PhD student at HAP with a background in veterinary medicine and animal science. My current research focuses on early-life nutrition and the metabolic effects of milk-derived carbohydrates, particularly galactose.

Prolonged breastfeeding has been linked to beneficial metabolic outcomes, yet lactose intolerance often leads to the use of lactose-free infant formulas. Since lactose consists of glucose and galactose, and galactose is mainly found in milk, my research investigates whether galactose itself contributes to these health benefits. Using mouse models, I study the metabolic effects of dietary galactose in young mice, focusing on whole-body metabolism, small intestinal microbiota, and the relevant metabolic organs including intestine and liver. This project aims to improve our understanding of galactose metabolism and support the development of improved infant and follow-up formulas to promote metabolic health in early life.