Lactoferrin and Cancer Disease Prevention

• Type: Another Publication in an International Scientific Journal
• Date: 2009

Authors

Rodrigues, L (Author) Other; Teixeira, JA (Author) Other; Fernando Schmitt (Author) FMUP; Paulsson, M (Author) Other; Mansson, HL (Author) Other

Journal

Title: Critical Reviews in Food Science and Nutrition

Vol. 49

Pages: 203-217

ISSN: 1040-8398

Publisher: Taylor & Francis

Indexing

ISI Web of Knowledge - 64 Citations

Scopus - 79 Citations

Other information

Authenticus ID: P-003-PJG

DOI: 10.1080/10408390701856157

Abstract (EN): Lactoferrin (LF) is an iron-binding glycoprotein that is composed of the transferrin family and is predominantly found in the products of the exocrine glands located in the gateways of the digestive, respiratory, and reproductive systems, suggesting a role in the non-specific defence against invading pathogens. Additionally, several physiological roles have been attributed to LF, namely regulation of iron homeostasis, host defence against infection and inflammation, regulation of cellular growth, and differentiation and protection against cancer development and metastasis. These findings have suggested LF's great potential therapeutic use in cancer disease prevention and/or treatment, namely as a chemopreventive agent. This review looks at the recent advances in understanding the mechanisms underlying the multifunctional roles of LF and future perspectives on its potential therapeutic applications.

Language: English

Type (Professor's evaluation): Scientific

No. of pages: 15