Lactoferrin and prematurity: a promising milk protein?

Area of Science:

• Neonatology
• Neuroscience
• Immunology

Background:

• Lactoferrin (Lf) is a major whey protein with antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and iron-regulating properties.
• Oral Lf supplementation in preterm infants is linked to reduced sepsis and necrotizing enterocolitis.
• Preclinical studies show bovine Lf protects the developing brain from injury and supports cognitive function.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the latest research on lactoferrin's role in neonatology.
• To explore Lf's neuroprotective and anti-inflammatory effects in perinatal brain injury models.
• To examine Lf's potential in preventing preterm birth.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of recent studies on lactoferrin in neonatology.
• Analysis of preclinical data on Lf's effects on brain development and injury.
• Examination of research on Lf's impact on preterm delivery.

Main Results:

• Lactoferrin supplementation in preterm infants reduced sepsis and necrotizing enterocolitis incidence.
• Bovine Lf demonstrated neuroprotective effects in preclinical models, reducing neuronal loss and inflammation.
• Lf supported brain development, connectivity, and cognition, while also showing potential in preventing preterm birth.

Conclusions:

• Lactoferrin exhibits significant therapeutic potential in neonatal care, particularly for brain protection and infection prevention.
• Further research into lactoferrin's mechanisms and clinical applications in neonatology is warranted.
• Lf may offer a novel strategy for improving outcomes in preterm infants and preventing adverse pregnancy events.