Italian study explores Lactoferrin potential in preventing or treating COVID-19

As the COVID-19 pandemic spread across the globe, researchers sought alternative methods to prevent and treat the disease. Among the various approaches, one natural protein, lactoferrin, gained attention for its potential in providing protection. Found naturally in human breast milk, lactoferrin has antimicrobial, antiviral, and immune-boosting properties. But does it hold the key to preventing COVID-19 infections? This article delves into the latest research findings and studies by Italian researchers that explore lactoferrin's effectiveness in different populations, including pregnant women and infants.

Study explores Lactoferrin potential in preventing or treating COVID-19

Thailand Medical News had previously also reported on studies extolling the merits of lactoferrin in preventing and treating COVID-19.
 
https://www.thailandmedical.news/news/researchers-from-slovakia-reveal-how-a-protein-in-milk-could-combat-covid-19
 
https://www.thailandmedical.news/news/numerous-studies-are-showing-that-lactoferrin-can-be-used-as-an-adjuvant-in-covid-19-treatment-protocols
 
https://www.thailandmedical.news/news/must-read-immune-system-natural-protein-found-in-mother-s-milk-and-colostrum-called-lactoferrin-could-help-protect-against-various-viruses
 
https://www.thailandmedical.news/news/covid-19-news-sars-cov-2-infected-children-show-persisting-gastrointestinal-symptoms-over-18-months-lactoferrin-helps
 
https://www.thailandmedical.news/news/lactoferrin-an-iron-binding-protein-with-antiviral-and-antibacterial-properties
 
Researchers from institutions such as the University of Turin, Policlinico Casilino, Università del Piemonte Orientale (UPO), and the IRCCS Istituto Auxologico Italiano have conducted numerous studies, hoping to determine whether lactoferrin can truly prevent SARS-CoV-2 infection and aid in the recovery of COVID-19 patients.
 
Study Findings
The study results show that lactoferrin has the potential to reduce the time for viral clearance in COVID-19 patients, particularly in those with mild or asymptomatic cases. Some studies demonstrated a reduction in viral load and faster recovery times when lactoferrin was administered early in the course of the disease. However, the effective ness in severe cases remains inconclusive.
 
The studies also emphasized lactoferrin’s excellent safety profile, making it a low-risk supplement for individuals looking to boost their immune systems during the pandemic. Its ability to enhance iron homeostasis and modulate inflammatory responses makes it particularly promising for preventing severe complications like acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS).
 
How Does Lactoferrin Work?
Lactoferrin is a protein with strong iron-binding properties. It plays a significant role in limiting the availability of iron to pathogens, which need it to survive. Lactoferrin also boosts the immune system by inhibiting the adhesion and entry of viruses into cells. This makes it particularly promising in the fight against viral infections, including COVID-19.
 
In addition to its antimicrobial properties, lactoferrin helps to regulate inflammation, a crucial aspect of treating diseases like COVID-19. It has been shown to reduce the production of inflammatory molecules like IL-6, which are responsible for the severe symptoms of COVID-19.
 
Early Findings: In Vitro Studies
In laboratory settings, lactoferrin demonstrated its potential to block the SARS-CoV-2 virus from binding to cells. Researchers found that it could compete with the virus for the same receptors, effectively stopping it from infecting cells. This mechanism, combined with lactoferrin’s ability to enhance immune responses, has been seen as a significant step forward in COVID-19 prevention.
 
Moreover, studies showed that lactoferrin could also downregulate the cytokine storm associated with severe COVID-19. By reducing the production of IL-6 and maintaining iron homeostasis, lactoferrin seemed to provide a dual protective effect - fighting the virus while also reducing the severity of inflammation in infected individuals.
 
Clinical Trials: A Mixed Bag of Results
The promising in vitro results led to clinical trials where lactoferrin was tested in real-world settings. Initial trials showed that lactoferrin supplementation helped shorten the time it took for patients to test negative for COVID-19. In some cases, lactoferrin even prevented infection in at-risk populations, such as healthcare workers and the elderly.
 
However, not all studies had such positive outcomes. In more severe cases, lactoferrin did not show significant benefits when used as an adjunct treatment for hospitalized patients. Researchers noted that the conflicting results could be due to several factors, such as the timing of lactoferrin administration and the formulation used. For example, some studies used microencapsulated lactoferrin, which had better bioavailability compared to non-encapsulated versions.
 
Special Populations: Pregnant Women and Infants
One of the unique aspects of lactoferrin is its presence in breast milk, where it helps protect newborns from infections. Given that infants and pregnant women are often vulnerable to infections, researchers wondered if lactoferrin could provide extra protection against COVID-19 in these populations.
 
While studies specifically focusing on pregnant women and newborns are still limited, there is some evidence suggesting that lactoferrin may play a role in preventing severe COVID-19 outcomes in these groups. For example, pregnant women with COVID-19 were found to have higher levels of lactoferrin in their colostrum, the nutrient-rich first milk produced after childbirth. This increase in lactoferrin may be the body’s natural response to protect the newborn from viral infections, including COVID-19.
 
Researchers are optimistic that future studies will explore this potential further, especially since lactoferrin has already shown to prevent other infections, such as respiratory illnesses, in infants.
 
The Future of Lactoferrin in COVID-19 Treatment
While the evidence on lactoferrin’s effectiveness against COVID-19 is still evolving, it is clear that the protein has significant potential in preventing and managing the disease. Its dual ability to fight infections and modulate the immune response makes it an attractive option, especially in populations that may not have access to vaccines or advanced medical treatments.
 
However, more research is needed to fully understand lactoferrin's capabilities. The discrepancies in clinical trial outcomes highlight the importance of standardizing lactoferrin formulations and administration methods. Additionally, more studies are needed to determine its effectiveness in vulnerable groups like pregnant women, infants, and the elderly.
 
Conclusion
Lactoferrin offers a glimpse of hope in the fight against COVID-19, particularly as a preventive supplement or an early treatment for mild cases. Its natural origin, availability, and proven safety make it an attractive option for individuals seeking additional protection against the virus.
 
While more research is needed, especially in vulnerable populations like pregnant women and infants, the evidence so far suggests that lactoferrin could play a valuable role in the global effort to manage COVID-19. As we move forward, it will be crucial to continue investigating this promising protein and its potential benefits in various clinical settings.
 
The study findings were published in the peer-reviewed International Journal of Molecular Sciences.
https://www.mdpi.com/1422-0067/25/19/10248
 
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https://www.thailandmedical.news/news/breaking-scientists-find-that-the-otc-drug-diphenhydramine-when-paired-with-lactoferrin-could-be-a-new-therapeutic-for-covid-19
 
https://www.thailandmedical.news/news/potential-of-pteris-medicinal-plants-in-combatting-covid-19-and-other-viral-diseases