Advances of the “Miracle Protein” Against Viral Diseases: Lactoferrin in Clinical Trials

Antimicrobial resistance is a significant problem that has been studied in recent years. Viral diseases have generated high levels of morbidity and mortality, and recently, the world population faced a highly contagious viral disease (SARS-CoV-2), which caused millions of deaths without an effective drug capable of controlling the infectious process. As a result, various therapeutic alternatives to antimicrobials have emerged that target microorganisms, support the immune system, and reduce inflammation. Lactoferrin is a ultifunctional glycoprotein of the mammalian innate immune system that has shown various benefits, notably its antimicrobial and, primarily, its antiviral effects. No resistance or toxicity to this protein has been reported, which is why it is called a “miracle protein”. This is the first review to focus on the antiviral effects of lactoferrin in clinical trials. In addition, in vitro and in vivo studies evaluating lactoferrin against various viral etiologies are also discussed.