Inflammatory bowel diseases: what lactoferrin can do for us?

Lactoferrin (LF), an iron-binding protein, is found in mammalian milk. LF is also secreted by different cell phenotypes. LF shows a wide range of biological activities, as many preclinical and clinical studies indicate that LF and its derived peptides have many biological functions in host defence, including not only antibacterial, but also antiviral, antifungal, and antiparasitic effects. These results raise the view that these compounds might affect the composition of the intestinal microbiota. LF is generally recognized as safe (GRAS). This protein has been shown in experimental studies to exert beneficial effects on intestinal inflammation. This review will target the beneficial effects of oral LF supplements on the intestinal ecosystem during inflammation and highlight the mechanisms by which LF may contribute to reducing inflammatory flare, and present perspectives for future research.