From Breast Milk to Benchtop: Exploring the Clinical Promise of Human Milk Oligosaccharides

Lauren Spain, PhD, RDN, LD, CDCES, FAND

Medical Science Liaison
Global Medical Affairs & Research
Abbott Nutrition
Austin, TX, USA   

Dr Lauren Spain is a dedicated nutrition professional with extensive experience in leadership, research, and wellness. She currently serves as a Medical Science Liaison in Medical Affairs & Research at Abbott’s Nutrition Division. Her expertise spans pediatric nutrition, wellness programming, and public health initiatives.   

Dr Spain earned her PhD in Nutrition and Bachelor of Science in Family and Consumer Sciences at the University of Georgia. She completed her dietetic internship at Emory University Hospital and worked as a Clinical Dietitian prior to obtaining her PhD. Her research focused on protein sources and their effects on pediatric bone health and cognitive function. She previously served as Associated Department Head for Undergraduate Programs at Texas A&M University where she oversaw curriculum and taught both undergraduate and graduate courses.   

Dr Spain is active within the nutrition community and has held multiple leadership roles including serving as delegate to the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics (AND) for the Nutrition Educators for Health Professionals Dietetics Practice Group and President of the Georgia Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. She recently began her tenure as Director-at-Large for the AND in June 2025. 

Dr Spain is an accomplished speaker and clinician, committed to driving innovative care in nutrition, health, and wellness.

Andie Lee Gonzalez, PhD, MPH, RDN, FAND

Senior Medical Science Liaison
Medical Affairs & Research
Abbott Nutrition
Palmview, TX, USA

Andie Lee Gonzalez is a Senior Medical Science Liaison with the Pediatric MSL Team. Dr Gonzalez earned a bachelor's degree in Dietetics and Nutrition, a Master in Public Health (MPH) and clinical dietetic training at Michigan State University (MSU) in East Lansing, Michigan. Her undergraduate and graduate work focused on nutrition and the health of migrant farmworker children. She completed her PhD in Organizational Leadership from Our Lady of the Lake University in San Antonio, Texas.

Her previous roles included inpatient and outpatient counseling for adults and pediatric patients. She was an adjunct Community Nutrition Professor at the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley and South Texas College, and served as an AmeriCorps Health Corps member. Dr Gonzalez also serves in various community nutrition-focused local and national organizations. A few roles include President-Elect of the Texas Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, Public Advocacy Liaison for Latinos and Hispanics in Dietetics and Nutrition, and chair of Grants and Awards for the Pediatric Nutrition Practice Group.

Elizabeth J Reverri, PhD, MS, RD, FAND

Senior Research Scientist
Abbott Nutrition
Columbus, OH, USA

Beth is a Senior Research Scientist at Abbott, where she has worked in the Nutrition Science & Innovation group since 2017. Her research focuses on infant and toddler nutrition, with particular expertise in human milk oligosaccharides (HMOs) and their role in early-life health.

She has authored and presented nutrition research at international scientific meetings. Beth has held leadership roles within the American Society for Nutrition and the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics and is recognized for her contributions to the field through multiple honors, including an Abbott President’s Award. In 2025, she was named a Fellow of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics.

She is also deeply committed to mentorship and has guided numerous students in nutrition science and dietetics. Prior to joining Abbott, Beth had worked as a Nutrition Instructor, Postdoctoral Researcher, and Registered Dietitian providing clinical care to adult and pediatric populations.

Beth earned her PhD in Nutritional Biology and a minor in Endocrinology from the University of California, Davis. She completed her Dietetic Internship, an MS in Clinical Nutrition, and a BS in Dietetics from Boston University. Ultimately, she aspires for her work in the nutrition field to contribute to the nutrition education of healthcare professionals and consumers.