A bactericidal effect for human lactoferrin

Science. 1977 Jul 15;197(4300):263-5. doi: 10.1126/science.327545.

Abstract

Streptococcus mutans and Vibrio cholerae, but not Escherichia coli, were killed by incubation with purified human apolactoferrin. Concentrations of lactoferrin below that necessary for total inhibition resulted in a marked reduction in viable colony-forming units. This bactericidal effect was contingent upon the metal-chelating properties of the lactoferrin molecule.

Publication types

  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Apoproteins / pharmacology
  • Chelating Agents / pharmacology
  • Dose-Response Relationship, Drug
  • Escherichia coli / drug effects*
  • Humans
  • Iron / metabolism
  • Lactoferrin / pharmacology*
  • Lactoglobulins / pharmacology*
  • Species Specificity
  • Streptococcus / drug effects*
  • Streptococcus mutans / drug effects*
  • Vibrio cholerae / drug effects*

Substances

  • Apoproteins
  • Chelating Agents
  • Lactoglobulins
  • Iron
  • Lactoferrin