Lactoferrin (LTF)
Lactoferrin (LTF) is an iron binding transport protein and is part of the transferrin glycoprotein family. It is present in milk, saliva, tears and nasal secretions. LTF is expressed by the acinar cells of the lacrimal glands and is found in the granules of neutrophililc white blood cells. LTF has antimicrobial activity, modulates the inflammatory process, and controls cell growth. It has been shown to play a role in myelopoiesis, primary antibody response, lymphocyte proliferation, cytokine production, and regulation of complement activation. LTF levels are decreased in the tears of patients with Sjogrens syndrome. Increased levels of LTF have been found in the plasma of cystic fibrosis patients.
Swiss-Prot Accession Number: P02788