Lactoferrin a protein with multiple bioactivities

Amir Khalafi,1,* Fatemeh moradian,2 Alireza rafiei,3

1. Department of Basic Sciences, Sari Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources University, Mazandaran, Iran.
2. Department of Basic Sciences, Sari Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources University, Mazandaran, Iran.
3. Molecular and Cell Biology Research Center,Faculty of medicine, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences

Abstract

Introduction

Lactoferrin(lf) is an 80 kda iron-binding glycoprotein and members of the transferrin family with capability of binding and transfer of iron. lactoferrin is an antioxidant that can capture free irons and prevents the formation of uncontrollable free radicals. lactoferrin is a multifunctional protein involves in many physiological functions including regulation of iron absorption and immune response and antioxidant activity, anticancer ,antimicrobial and antiinflammation activities

Methods

Lactoferrin was dissolved in pbs,and purity of protein was checked by sds–page and passed through a 0.2-μm filter before use and stored at 4°c.

Results

Lactoferrine have antibacterial, antifungal and anticancer activity:lf has inhibitory effect against wide range of gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria. human and bovine lactoferrin activity, as well as lactoferricin were specified against pathogenic fungi, especially candida albicans and many other species . since free iron may act as a mutagen in the oxidative degradation of nucleic acid structure, it is likely that the ability binding of iron in lactoferrin as anti-tumor properties was important

Conclusion

One of the first applications of lactoferrin was add to childrens nutrition, and recently it has been used in food and drug and immune system enhancers, cosmetics, pet food supplements, beverages, fermentation milk, chewing gum and toothpaste

Keywords

Antioxidant, chemoprotective, lactoferrin, multiple functions