Bovine Lactoferrin

Abstract

Lactoferrin is found in milk, polymorphonuclear leukocytes and a variety of vertebrate secretions (Masson et al, 1966; Baggiolini et al, 1970). The levels of lactoferrin differ considerably depending upon the species and the lactational status of the mammary gland being investigated. Lactoferrin concentrations up to 6 mg/ml have been measured within human colostrum, gradually declining to 1–2 mg/ml later in lactation (Lonnerdal et al, 1976). The concentration of lactoferrin in bovine colostrum however ranges between 1–5 mg/ml, falling to approximately 0.1 mg/ml during late lactation (Smith & Schanbacher, 1977). It has also been documented that during periods of mastitis and during involution, bovine lactoferrin lacteal secretion levels increase dramatically (Welty et al, 1976).