Lactoferrin

Definition

Lactoferrin is a multifunctional glycoprotein found in various secretory fluids, such as milk, saliva, and tears. It plays a crucial role in the body's innate immune system by binding iron and exhibiting antimicrobial properties.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Lactoferrin binds iron, making it unavailable for microbial growth and thus inhibiting bacterial proliferation.
2. It exhibits broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity against bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites.
3. Lactoferrin is present in high concentrations in human colostrum and tears, contributing to the protection of mucosal surfaces.
4. It has anti-inflammatory properties that help modulate the immune response and reduce tissue damage during infections.
5. Lactoferrin can disrupt bacterial cell membranes directly or inhibit viral entry into host cells.

Review Questions

• What role does lactoferrin play in preventing bacterial infections?
• How does lactoferrin contribute to the body's defense against viruses?
• In which bodily fluids can lactoferrin be commonly found?

Related terms

Defensins:

Small antimicrobial peptides produced by neutrophils and epithelial cells that disrupt microbial membranes.

Lysozyme:

An enzyme that breaks down bacterial cell walls, found in saliva, tears, and other secretory fluids.

Normal Microbiota: The community of microorganisms that reside on or within various parts of the human body without causing disease under normal conditions.