1. Lactoferrin (LF) is a 75 to 80kDa non-heme iron-binding glycoprotein that was produced when placentans and marsupials differentiated about 125 million years ago. It is classified as the youngest member of the transferrin family due to its high homology with transferrin. Studies have found that LF protein has a variety of biological functions, including broad-spectrum antibacterial, antiviral and antitumor effects, and is associated with many important physiological processes in the body. For example, it can regulate the balance of iron in the body, regulate the generation of bone marrow cells, promote cell growth, regulate the body's immune function, enhance the body's resistance to disease, antihypertensive activity, and a variety of antibiotics and antifungal preparations synergistic effect.
2.LF protein is widely found in exocrine fluid (milk, saliva, tears, nasal secretions), plasma, amniotic fluid, uterine secretions, urine and neutrophils, with the highest content in colostrum. The amino acid sequence of human and bovine lactoferrin is 69% homologous, so they have similar biological activities. However, the content of lactoferrin in cow milk is very low, and some formula milk will be supplemented with fortified lactoferrin to meet the nutritional needs of the baby and promote its growth and development.