Immunomodulatory and antimicrobial activity of lactoferrin

Lactoferrin, an iron-binding glycoprotein, has been extensively studied for more than 60 years now. The structure of the protein with its antimicrobial peptides, as well as functions originating from the structure, is described in this review. The synthesis mechanisms and multiple activities of lactoferrin are also discussed, with a particular attention paid to the antimicrobial and bacteriostatic properties of this protein. One can assume that, owing to its numerous functions and important role played in the mammary gland immunity, lactoferrin is a protein crucial to immune response during mastitis. Lactoferrin can be also regarded as a potential therapeutic and immunomodulatory agent. Our review summarises the functions and applications of lactoferrin in the context of bovine mastitis.