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Lactoferrin

Lactoferrin is a glycoprotein that belongs to the transferrin family of iron binding proteins. It is found in human breast milk as well as most epithelial surface secretions including tears, nasogastric, saliva, and bronchial. Lactoferrin is a multifunctional protein that has the following properties:

• Binds two molecules of iron with very high affinity
• Anti-bacterial
  • Inhibits bacterial growth by withholding iron
  • N-terminal region is an antimicrobial peptide
• Anti-viral
• Anti-fungal
• Antioxidant
• Immunomodulatory
• Acts synergistically with lysozyme to potentiate the activity of both proteins

Because of the numerous important roles lactoferrin plays in the human body, a wide variety of potential products could be pursued. The following are some examples of how lactoferrin could be used to enhance human health:

• Gastrointestinal health
  • Dietary management of acute diarrhea
• Treatment of topical infections and inflammations
  • Alleviation of fungal infections

For more information on lactoferrin, please see our lactoferrin references page.