EGF and Onset: We have previously shown that spontaneous translocation from the intestine in neonates is limited due to intestinal barrier protection provided by maternal factors in breastmilk, including epidermal growth factor (EGF).33 Our group has previously reported that the inhibition of epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) in neonates results in rapid dissemination of E. coli, and late-onset sepsis-like systemic infection.