Lactoferrin Apo Human Recombinant
Lactoferrin Holo Human Recombinant
Recombinant Human Holo Lactoferrin, produced in plants, is a glycosylated polypeptide with a molecular weight of approximately 80 kDa. Purification is achieved through proprietary chromatographic techniques.
Lactoferrin Human (Breast Milk)
Lactoferrin Human (Seminal Plasma)
Lactoferrin (LF), also known as lactotransferrin (LTF), is a multifunctional glycoprotein belonging to the transferrin family . It is a globular protein with a molecular mass of approximately 80 kDa and is widely present in various secretory fluids such as milk, saliva, tears, and nasal secretions . Lactoferrin is also found in the secondary granules of neutrophils and is secreted by some acinar cells .
Lactoferrin exhibits several key biological properties, including its ability to bind and transport iron ions, which is crucial for its antimicrobial activity . It has antibacterial, antiviral, antiparasitic, catalytic, anti-cancer, and anti-allergic functions . Lactoferrin is expressed in various tissues, including the mammary glands, salivary glands, and mucosal surfaces . It is constantly produced and released into saliva, tears, and other bodily fluids .
Lactoferrin plays a significant role in the immune system. It is involved in the regulation of iron homeostasis, which is essential for limiting the availability of iron to pathogens, thereby inhibiting their growth . Lactoferrin also has direct antimicrobial properties, including bactericidal and fungicidal activities . Additionally, it modulates immune responses by interacting with various immune cells and influencing their functions . Lactoferrin is involved in pathogen recognition and can bind to bacterial lipopolysaccharides, preventing bacterial adhesion and invasion .
Lactoferrin exerts its effects through multiple mechanisms. It binds to iron with high affinity, depriving pathogens of the iron necessary for their growth . Lactoferrin also interacts with various receptors on the surface of immune cells, such as monocytes, macrophages, and lymphocytes, modulating their activity . It can inhibit the entry of viruses into host cells by binding to viral receptors . Lactoferrin also interacts with DNA, RNA, polysaccharides, and heparin, forming complexes that contribute to its biological functions .
The expression and activity of lactoferrin are regulated by various mechanisms. Transcriptional regulation of lactoferrin is influenced by factors such as estrogen, retinoic acid, mitogens, and growth factors . Post-translational modifications, including glycosylation, also play a role in modulating lactoferrin’s activity . These regulatory mechanisms ensure that lactoferrin is produced and functions appropriately in response to physiological needs and environmental stimuli .
Lactoferrin has numerous applications in biomedical research, diagnostics, and therapeutics. It is used as a biomarker for various diseases and conditions due to its presence in bodily fluids . Lactoferrin’s antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties make it a potential therapeutic agent for treating infections and inflammatory diseases . It is also explored for its role in cancer therapy, as it can inhibit tumor growth and metastasis . Additionally, lactoferrin is used in dietary supplements to support immune function and overall health .
Lactoferrin plays a crucial role throughout the life cycle, from development to aging and disease. In infants, lactoferrin in colostrum and breast milk provides essential immune protection and supports gut health . During adulthood, lactoferrin continues to contribute to immune defense and iron homeostasis . In aging individuals, lactoferrin’s antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties may help mitigate age-related diseases and support overall health . Lactoferrin’s role in cancer prevention and therapy further underscores its importance in maintaining health throughout life .