ABSTRACT
Lactoferrin (LF), a glycoprotein found in mucosal secretions, is characterized by a wide range of functions, including immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory activities. Moreover, several investigations confirmed that LF displays high effectiveness against multiple bacteria and viruses and may be regarded as a potential inhibitor of enveloped viruses, such as presently prevailing SARS-CoV-2. In our review, we discuss available studies about LF functions and bioavailability of different LF forms in in vitro and in vivo models. Moreover, we characterize the potential benefits and side effects of LF use; we also briefly summarize the latest clinical trials examining LF application. Finally, we point potential role of LF in inflammatory bowel disease and indicate its use as a marker for disease severity.
Subject(s)
Anti-Infective Agents , Immunomodulating Agents , Lactoferrin , Anti-Infective Agents/pharmacology , Humans , Immunomodulating Agents/pharmacology , Inflammatory Bowel Diseases , Lactoferrin/pharmacology , SARS-CoV-2ABSTRACT
In December 2019 in Wuhan, China the first cases of previously unknown, coronaviral infection-induced pneumonia have been reported. The new virus SARS-CoV-2 (Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2) was named after SARS-CoV due to their similarities and the disease caused by the pathogen is COVID-19 (Coronavirus Disease 2019). On 11 March 2020 WHO (World Health Organization) defined the rapidly increasing number of incidents of COVID-19 as a pandemic. In this review we will present recent information about the SARS-CoV-2 focusing on the origin, clinical picture, diagnostic methods, structure, replication cycle of SARS-CoV-2 and potential pharmaceutical measures against COVID-19.