A prospective on multiple biological activities of lactoferrin contributing to piglet welfare

Piglets, especially weaning piglets, show a lower level of immunity and higher morbidity and mortality, owing to their rapid growth, physiological immaturity, and gradual reduction of maternal antibodies, which seriously affects their growth and thus, value. It is important that piglets adapt to nutrient digestion and absorption and develop sound intestinal function and colonization with gut microbiota as soon as possible during their early life stage. Lactoferrin is a natural glycoprotein polypeptide that is part of the transferrin family. It is widely found in mucosal secretions such as saliva and tears, and most highly in milk and colostrum. As a multifunctional bioactive protein and a recommended food additive, lactoferrin is a potential alternative therapy to antibiotics and health promoting additive for piglet nutrition and development. It is expected that lactoferrin, as a natural food additive, could play an important role in maintaining pig health and development. This review examines the following known beneficial effects of lactoferrin: improves the digestion and capacity for absorption in the intestinal tract; promotes the absorption of iron and reduces the incidence of iron deficiency anemia; regulates intestinal function and helps to balance the microbial biota; and enhances the resistance to disease of the piglets via modulating and enhancing the immune system.