Lactoferrin and Nanotechnology: The Potential for Cancer Treatment

Lactoferrin (Lf)-a glycoprotein of the transferrin family-has been investigated as a promising molecule with diverse applications, including infection inhibition, anti-inflammation, antioxidant properties and immune modulation. Along with that, Lf was found to inhibit the growth of cancerous tumors. Owing to unique properties such as iron-binding and positive charge, Lf could interrupt the cancer cell membrane or influence the apoptosis pathway. In addition, being a common mammalian excretion, Lf offers is promising in terms of targeting delivery or the diagnosis of cancer. Recently, nanotechnology significantly enhanced the therapeutic index of natural glycoproteins such as Lf. Therefore, in the context of this review, the understanding of Lf is summarized and followed by different strategies of nano-preparation, including inorganic nanoparticles, lipid-based nanoparticles and polymer-based nanoparticles in cancer management. At the end of the study, the potential future applications are discussed to pave the way for translating Lf into actual usage.

Automated summary

Lactoferrin (Lf), a glycoprotein with diverse applications, has potential in infection inhibition, anti-inflammation, antioxidant properties, immune modulation, and inhibiting cancerous tumors. Its unique properties, such as iron-binding and positive charge, allow Lf to interrupt cancer cell membranes and influence apoptosis pathways. Furthermore, Lf, as a common mammalian excretion, shows promise in targeting delivery and cancer diagnosis. Recently, nanotechnology has significantly improved the therapeutic index of Lf and other glycoproteins. This review summarizes the understanding of Lf and discusses different nano-preparation strategies, including inorganic nanoparticles, lipid-based nanoparticles, and polymer-based nanoparticles, in cancer management. Potential future applications of Lf are also discussed.