Lactoferrin is a multipotent protein that belongs to the transferrin family. It was first isolated from cow's milk in 1939. In the 1960s, it was also found in breast milk. In the human body, lactoferrin can also be found in other body fluids, e.g., saliva, tears, and vaginal discharge. Its biological activity depends on receptors present on the membrane surface of many cells, such as neutrophils, hepatocytes, and intestinal epithelial cells. Lactoferrin can bind iron. Because of this property, it also has antibacterial, antiviral, and antifungal activity. Its antiinflammatory and anticancer activity has also been confirmed. Recent studies have demonstrated that lactoferrin might have a beneficial effect in the prevention and treatment of obesity-related metabolic abnormalities, such as type 2 diabetes, hypertension, and dyslipidaemia. It is also worth to notice the potential relationship between polymorphisms in lactoferrin gene, genes for lactoferrin receptors and metabolic abnormalities in obese subjects.
Keywords: genetic; lactoferrin; metabolic disorders; polymorphism.
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