Experimental Biology and Medicine28- Lactoferrin

This text examines the structure and function of lactoferrin. Lactoferrin is associated with host defence, immune cell regulation, and the regulation of normal and tumour cell growth. In Lactoferrin: Interactions and Biological Functions, experimental and clinical investigators join forces to explain our current understanding of lactoferrin, a highly significant protein in medicine and industry. Drawing on many disciplines, the front-line authorities writing here define the structural features of lactoferrin and describe in detail several of its physiological functions. These include the role of lactoferrin in killing bacteria, and its involvement in cell growth and proliferation, in the modulation of immune function, and in iron absorption. Particular attention is given to lactoferrin functions in the regulation of normal and diseased states. New knowledge of the molecular biology of lactoferrin is also included, along with discussions of commercially viable large-scale production techniques and important new industrial applications. Lactoferrin: Interactions and Biological Functions offers a comprehensive, multidisciplinary view of our present knowledge of lactoferrin and opens the way to the greatly expanded use of lactoferrin as a bioactive reagent in foods and pharmaceuticals. Now the new standard reference in the field, Lactoferrin will prove invaluable to all those working with this important biochemical in both basic and clinical settings. Experimental and clinical investigators join forces to explain our current understanding of lactoferrin. Drawing on many disciplines, the front-line authorities writing here define the known structural features of lactoferrin and describe in detail several of its physiological functions. These include the role of lactoferrin…