The future of lactoferrin: A closer look at LipoDuo technology

BACKGROUND

Lactoferrin (Lf), a multifunctional glycoprotein known for its roles in immune modulation, iron metabolism, and antimicrobial activity, has limited therapeutic efficacy due to poor bioavailability. Liposomal encapsulation of lactoferrin (LLf) offers a potential solution by improving its stability, absorption, and sustained release, making it a promising candidate for various clinical applications. This study aims to compare the effectiveness of LLf and plain Lf in cellular uptake, proliferation, and wound healing using HEK-293T and Caco-2 cell lines.

METHODS

Cell uptake, proliferation, and wound healing assays were conducted using HEK-293T and Caco-2 cells to evaluate the bioavailability and therapeutic efficacy of LLf compared to plain Lf. The cellular uptake was assessed over a 24-h period using an indirect ELISA method. Cell proliferation was measured using the MTT assay, while wound healing was evaluated using a scratch assay to observe cell migration over 48 h.

RESULTS

LLf demonstrated significantly higher cellular uptake in both HEK-293T and Caco-2 cells, with peak internalization at 4 h, compared to plain Lf. In proliferation studies, LLf showed a dose-dependent increase in cell growth, achieving a 71% proliferation rate at 75 µg/mL, while plain Lf reached only 53%. LLf also accelerated wound healing, with nearly complete closure by 48 h, compared to 51.3% closure with plain Lf.

CONCLUSION

The results indicate that liposomal encapsulation significantly enhances lactoferrin's bioavailability, proliferation-inducing capacity, and wound healing efficacy. LLf's superior performance in these key areas suggests its potential for broader therapeutic applications, particularly in wound care, immune modulation, and tissue regeneration. Future clinical studies are warranted to validate the therapeutic benefits of LLf in vivo.

Review on application of silk fibroin hydrogels in the management of wound healing

Wounds are regarded as disruptions in the integrity of human skin tissues, and the process of wound healing is often characterized as protracted and complex, primarily due to the potential infection or inflammation caused by microorganisms. The quest for innovative solutions that accelerate wound healing while prioritizing patient safety and comfort has emerged as a focal point. Within this pursuit, silkworm silk fibroin-a natural polymer extracted from silk cocoons-exhibits a distinctive combination of properties including biocompatibility, biodegradability, superior mechanical strength, water absorption, and low immunogenicity, which align closely with the demands of contemporary wound care. Its remarkable biocompatibility facilitates seamless integration with host tissues, thereby minimizing the risk of rejection or adverse reactions. Furthermore, its intrinsic degradability permits controlled release of therapeutic agents, promoting an optimal microenvironment conducive to healing. This review investigates the multifaceted potential of silk fibroin specifically as a wound dressing material and examines the intricate nuances associated with its application in hydrogels for wound healing, aiming to furnish a thorough overview for both researchers and clinicians. By scrutinizing underlying mechanisms, current applications, and prospective directions, we aspire to cultivate new insights and inspire innovative strategies within this rapidly evolving field.

A comprehensive review of research advances in the study of lactoferrin to treat viral infections

Lactoferrin (Lf) is a naturally occurring glycoprotein known for its antiviral and antibacterial properties and is present in various physiological fluids. Numerous studies have demonstrated its antiviral effectiveness against multiple viruses, such as severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), influenza virus (IFV), herpes simplex virus (HSV), hepatitis B virus (HBV), and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). Lf, a vital component of the mucosal defense system, plays a crucial role in inhibiting viral infection by binding to both host cells and viral particles, such as the Hepatitis C virus (HCV). This interaction enables Lf to keep viral particles away from their target cells, emphasizing its significance as a fundamental element of mucosal defense against viral infections. Additionally, Lf has the ability to modulate cytokine expression and enhance cellular immune responses. In the innate immune system, Lf serves as a unique iron transporter and helps suppress various pathogens like bacteria, fungi, and viruses. This article summarises the potential antiviral properties of Lf against various viruses, along with its other mentioned functions. The advancement of Lf-based therapies supports the homology of food and medicine, providing a promising avenue to address viral infections and other public health challenges.

Controversial role of lactoferrin in cancer: A narrative review

Lactoferrin (Lf) is a positively charged iron-binding glycoprotein that has piqued the scientific community's interest due to its pleiotropic behavior, exhibiting a wide range of biological activities, including antimicrobial, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, and anticancer effects. This narrative review explores the current understanding of Lf's role in cancer, focusing on the endogenously expressed human full-length and ΔLf isoforms, and the effects of treatment with exogenous human and bovine Lf. We evaluated and compared the mechanisms by which Lf influences tumorigenesis and cancer progression, focusing on its impact on key processes such as cell growth, apoptosis, angiogenesis, cell migration, and invasiveness. Notably, the mechanisms of action of human and bovine Lf show some divergences, presumably due to slight structural differences that may lead to opposing effects. Insights from this comparison may help identify new Lf variants with enhanced anticancer activity. Indeed, both human and bovine Lf showed substantial anticancer activity, prompting researchers to investigate their potential utility in cancer prevention and progression. However, some studies have indicated that high levels of human Lf expression may be linked to increased carcinogenesis and metastasis, reflecting its intricate and context-dependent role in cancer. Thus, we emphasize the need for a deeper comprehension of Lf biology and its regulation to enhance understanding of Lf's role in cancer and identify more targeted therapeutic strategies, encouraging further research in this area.

Lactoferrin in the treatment of interstitial cystitis: a retrospective pilot study

Interstitial cystitis (IC), defined as a painful bladder syndrome (PBS), is a chronic condition that manifests itself as a suprapubic pain associated with an enhancing of frequency/urgency of urination, and for which there is no cure. Here, we present a retrospective pilot study on women affected from IC/PBS and treated with bovine lactoferrin (bLf). A total of 31 women, affected (20) or unaffected (11) from hereditary thrombophilia (HT), presented the median of 6 episodes of IC/PBS during the 6 months before the study. Treatment consisted of 17 weeks of orally administered Valpalf® capsules, containing bLf plus sodium bicarbonate and citrate. Out of 31 patients, only 3 women had one episode of IC/PBS during the follow-up period, while no episode was observed in 28 women. In the HT group, a significant decrease in both serum IL-6 and D-dimers was found after Valpalf® treatment. Moreover, in Valpalf®-treated women, cystoscopy revealed a global improvement in the appearance of the bladder, especially in term of inflammation/irritation and presence of Hunner ulcers. Even if our results must be corroborated by randomized double-blinded controlled trials on a larger number of patients, our observations indicate that bLf treatment is efficient in relieving IC/PBS symptoms, without side effects.

Supramolecular collagen nanoparticles for anti-wrinkle, skin whitening, and moisturizing effects

Collagen-based skincare products can replenish collagen in the skin; however, collagen cannot easily penetrate the dermis, limiting its effectiveness. Therefore, nanomaterials that can enable collagen to effectively penetrate the dermis are urgently needed. This study aimed to determine the potential role of the supramolecular collagen nanoparticles, namely, lactoferrin, recombinant human collagen, and palmitoyl tripeptide-5, in improving the effectiveness of skincare products. Lactoferrin and recombinant collagen served as carriers encapsulating palmitoyl tripeptide-5, with an encapsulation rate of 94.18 %. The supramolecular collagen nanoparticles demonstrated good stability after 1 month. Transdermal efficiency was improved by 69.90 %, allowing the nanoparticles to penetrate deeply into the dermis. Within 28 days of use, the moisture content of the stratum corneum increased by 10.51 %, facial elasticity improved by 8.15 %, skin firmness increased by 12.53 %, facial melanin index decreased by 1.84 %, and individual type angle increased by 19.10 %. Within 14 days, there was a 24.69 % reduction in eye bag wrinkles and a 37.61 % reduction in nasolabial wrinkles. Wrinkle lengths decreased by 10.22 % and 21.57 %, and areas decreased by 34.41 % and 27.92 %, respectively. The supramolecular collagen nanoparticles displayed multiple skincare benefits, including moisturizing, whitening, wrinkle reduction, and firming. In conclusion, the supramolecular collagen nanoparticles are promising candidates for cosmetic products.

Topical oxygen therapy as a novel strategy to promote wound healing and control the bacteria in implantology, oral surgery and periodontology: A review

Globally, oral infections and inflammatory lesions persist as substantial public health concerns, necessitating the introduction of novel oral treatment protocols. Oral diseases are linked to various causative factors, with dental plaque/biofilm resulting from inadequate hygiene practices playing a predominant role. The strategic implementation of novel topical therapies holds promise for effectively controlling the biofilms, addressing oral infections and promoting enhanced oral wound healing. This review aims to providing a comprehensive overview of the available evidence pertaining to the potential efficacy of topical oxygen and lactoferrin-releasing biomaterials, exemplified by the blue®m formula, as novel oral care interventions within the scope of contemporary implantology, oral surgery and periodontology.

Hydrogels based on galactomannan and κ-carrageenan containing immobilized biomolecules for in vivo thermal-burn wound treatment

Hydrogels based on natural polysaccharides have demonstrated efficacy in epithelial recovery from cutaneous burn wounds. Here, we prepared a double-network hydrogel consisting of galactomannan (from Cassia grandis seeds) and κ-carrageenan (commercially sourced), cross-linked with CaCl2, as a matrix for immobilizing lactoferrin and/or Cramoll, aiming at its applicability as dressings for second-degree burn wounds. The formulations obtained [H - hydrogel, HL - hydrogel + lactoferrin, HC - hydrogel + Cramoll and HLC - hydrogel + lactoferrin + Cramoll] were analyzed rheologically as well as in terms of their stability (pH, color, microbial contamination) for 90 days. The burn was created with an aluminum bar (97 ± 3 °C) in the dorsal region of Wistar rats and subsequently treated with hydrogels (H, HL, HC, HLC) and control saline solution (S). The burn was monitored for 3, 7 and 14 days to evaluate the efficacy of the hydrogels in promoting wound healing. The hydrogels did not reveal significant pH or microbiological changes; there was an increase in brightness and a reduction in opacity for H. The rheological analysis confirmed the gel-like viscoelastic signature of the systems without substantial modification of the basic rheological characteristics, however HLC proved to be more rigid, due to rheological synergy when combining protein biomolecules. Macroscopic analyses confirmed centripetal healing with wound contraction: S < H < HC < HL < HLC. Histopathological analyses showed that hydrogel-treated groups reduced inflammation, tissue necrosis and fibrosis, while promoting re-epithelialization with focal acanthosis, especially in HLC due to a positive synergistic effect, indicating its potential as a promising therapy in the repair of burns.

A versatile LTF-GO/gel hydrogel with antibacterial and antioxidative attributes for skin wound healing

Skin wound healing will become a pressing and difficult problem following injury to the skin structure. Persistent wounds, in particular, become more vulnerable to bacterial infections, which can contribute to persistent skin inflammation. Therefore, it is critical to create a wound dressing that promotes wound healing while also being antimicrobial. In the present work, a multifunctional biological activity hydrogel formed by enzymatic cross-linking was developed by introducing graphene oxide (GO) and lactoferrin to gelatin hydrogel. Furthermore, by incorporating lactoferrin, the composite hydrogels exhibit excellent in vitro antibacterial and biocompatibility. According to cell experiments, the LTF-GO/Gel hydrogel can improve wound healing by enhancing L929 cell migration. Interestingly, under near-infrared light, LTF-GO/Gel hydrogel increases the generation of singlet oxygen (1O2) and hydroxyl radical (-OH), making the hydrogel system excellent antioxidant and antibacterial capabilities, these results demonstrate that the LTF-GO/Gel hydrogel has clinical promise as a wound dressing for wound healing. In vivo experiments unequivocally establish the capacity of the LTF-GO/Gel hydrogel to expedite wound healing and mitigate inflammation. This hydrogel, therefore, harbors immense potential for applications in wound healing.

Effect of Bovine Lactoferrin Treatment on Iron Homeostasis and Gene Expression Changes in Multiple Organ Dysfunctions During Wound Healing Process in Rats

BACKGROUND

Injury systemically disrupts the homeostatic balance and can cause organ failure. LF mediates both iron-dependent and iron-independent mechanisms, and the role of LF in regulating iron homeostasis is vital in terms of metabolism.

OBJECTIVES

In this study, we evaluated the organ-level effect and gene expression change of bLf in the cutaneous repair process.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

An excisional full-thickness skin defect (FTSD) wound model was created in male Sprague Dawley rats (180-250 g) (n = 48) fed a high-fat diet (HFD) and the PHGPx, SLC7A11 and SLC40A1 genes and iron metabolism were evaluated. The animals were randomly divided into 6 groups: 1- Control, 2- bLf (200 mg/kg/day, oral), 3- FTSD (12 mm in diameter, dorsal), 4- HFD + bLf, 5- HFD + FTSD, 6- HFD + FTSD + bLf. Histologically, iron accumulation was demonstrated by Prussian blue staining in the liver, kidney, and intestinal tissues. Gene expression analysis was performed with qPCR.

RESULTS

Histologically, iron accumulation was demonstrated by Prussian blue staining in the liver, kidney, and intestinal tissues. Prussian blue reactions were detected in the kidney. PHPGx and SLC7A11 genes in kidney and liver tissue were statistically significant (P < 0.05) except for the SLC40A1 gene (P > 0.05). Expression changes of the three genes were not statistically significant in analyses of rat intestinal tissue (P = 0.057).

CONCLUSION

In the organ-level ferroptotic damage mechanism triggered by wound formation. BLf controls the expression of three genes and manages iron deposition in these three tissues. In addition, it suppressed the increase in iron that would drive the cell to ferroptosis and anemia caused by inflammation, thereby eliminating iron deposition in the tissues.

DNA-based molecular recognition system for lactoferrin biosensing

The paper describes the development of a novel DNA oligonucleotide-based affinity bioreceptor that binds to lactoferrin, a glycoprotein-type immunomodulator. The research was performed using surface plasmon resonance method to investigate affinity of various types of oligonucleotides to the target protein. The 72 base pair-long 5'[(TAGAGGATCAAA)AAA]4TAGAGGATCAAA3' sequence with the highest affinity to lactoferrin was selected for further investigations. Kinetic analysis of the interaction between selected DNA and lactoferrin provided rate and equilibrium constants: ka = (2.49 ± 0.03)∙104 M-1∙s-1, kd = (1.89 ± 0.02)∙10-3 s-1, KA = (0.13 ± 0.05)∙108 M-1, and KD = (7.61 ± 0.18)∙10-8 M. Thermodynamic study conducted to determine the ΔH0, ΔS0, and ΔG0 for van't Hoff characteristic in the temperature range of 291.15-305.15 K, revealed the complex formation as endothermic and entropically driven. The chosen DNA sequence's selectivity towards lactoferrin was confirmed with interferents' response constituting <3 % of the response to lactoferrin. SPR analysis justified utility of the designed DNA oligonucleotide for Lf determination, with LOD of 4.42∙10-9 M. Finally, the interaction between lactoferrin and DNA was confirmed by electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, providing the basis for further quantitative assay of lactoferrin using the developed DNA-based bioreceptor. The interactions were performed under immobilized DNA ligand conditions, thus reflecting the sensor's surface, which facilitates their transfer to other label-free biosensor technologies.

The Potential of Sheep or Camel Milk Constituents to Contribute to Novel Dressings for Diabetic Wounds

Impaired wound healing is a complication of diabetes, which constitutes a serious problem in clinical practice. Currently, there is a high demand on the market for local treatment options for difficult-to-heal wounds caused by diabetes. The development of dressings that accelerate wound healing has recently been the subject of much research. Sheep and camel milk is gaining importance due to the content of many bioactive substances with health-promoting effects, such as insulin, LF, proline, or CLA. Sheep and camel milk proteins are a promising source of insulin, antidiabetic, and antihypertensive peptides. Numerous studies show that local administration of insulin has a significant impact on the healing of diabetic wounds. Sheep and camel milk, due to the highest LF content among ruminants, reduces autoimmune inflammatory processes and protects against bacterial and viral infections in the wound environment. Sheep's milk has the highest content of proline and CLA, and their addition to a hydrogel dressing can help in the development of an effective dressing material. The production of hydrogel dressings containing sheep and camel milk, which are naturally rich in the bioactive substances presented in this review, may be a promising step in the market of specialized dressings for difficult-to-heal diabetic wounds.

Effect of lactoferrin on enamel characteristics of primary and permanent teeth: an in-vitro study

BACKGROUND

Lactoferrin, a glycoprotein naturally found in breast milk, is known for its bactericidal and antiviral properties, as well as its capacity to modulate the immune system; therefore, pediatricians routinely recommend it as dietary support. The objective of this study was to determine how lactoferrin oral suspension could affect the enamel surface characteristics of primary and permanent teeth.

METHODS

This research was conducted on 40 unidentified extracted teeth, including primary and permanent teeth. Experimental teeth were free of cracks or enamel defects, as confirmed by careful examination using a dental operating microscope. The crowns were bisected into 80 specimens and assorted into two groups based on the type of dentition. Group DM included 40 specimens of second deciduous molars, while Group PM contained 40 samples of first premolars. Each of the DM and PM specimens was subsequently split based on the type of dispersion medium into two subgroups: a control subgroup (artificial saliva) and a test subgroup (lactoferrin suspension). The specimens were immersed in lactoferrin suspension for two minutes, then kept in artificial saliva for the rest of the 24 h for 30 successive days. This is a pioneering study about the effect of orally supplemented lactoferrin on teeth; therefore, we examined enamel hardness, ultra-morphology, and mineral contents.

RESULTS

Our findings indicated a highly significant decrease (p < 0.01) in the microhardness of the lactoferrin subgroup in Group DM (second deciduous molars) and a significant reduction (p < 0.05) in the microhardness of the lactoferrin subgroup in Group PM (premolars). Calcium weight% was not statistically different (p > 0.05) compared with a significant decline (p < 0.05) in phosphorus weight% in lactoferrin subgroups in both DM and PM groups. The enamel surface of lactoferrin subgroups in both DM and PM groups was demineralized and porous, with the enamel of deciduous teeth being more affected by lactoferrin than permanent teeth.

CONCLUSION

Lactoferrin suspension decreased the microhardness of enamel and both calcium and phosphorus weight percentages. Both dentitions exhibited erosions in the enamel surface, with primary teeth being more affected than the permanent teeth.

Topical Iron Chelator Therapy: Current Status and Future Prospects

Systemic iron chelation therapy has long been used for iron overload, providing a role in returning iron levels to proper homeostatic concentrations. Recently, topical iron chelation therapy has emerged as a potential strategy for treating skin damage. This narrative review explores the current status and future prospects of topical iron chelation therapy for treating ultraviolet (UV) and non-UV skin damage, as well as its potential application in wound healing. The review was conducted through a literature search across PubMed, Web of Science, and EMBASE databases, spanning publications from 1990 to 2023. The selection of articles was focused on primary research studies, either experimental or clinical, that explored the implications and formulations of topical iron chelators used alone or in conjunction with another therapeutic agent. The search strategy employed a combination of terms, including "topical iron chelation", "topical deferoxamine", "UV", "wound healing", "skin inflammation", "radiation-induced fibrosis", and "skin cancer". Relevant studies, including methods, intervention strategies, measured outcomes, and findings, are summarized. The review also considered the potential challenges in translating research findings into clinical practice. Results indicate that topical iron chelators, such as deferoxamine, are effective in mitigating UV-induced skin damage, reducing tumorigenesis, and decreasing oxidative damage. In addition, the use of these agents in radiation-induced fibrosis has been shown to significantly increase skin elasticity and reduce dermal fibrosis. Several studies also highlight the use of topical iron chelators in difficult-to-treat chronic wounds, such as diabetic neuropathic ulcers and sickle cell ulcers. In conclusion, topical iron chelation therapy represents a novel and promising approach for skin protection and wound healing. Its potential makes it a promising area of future research.

Traditional complementary and alternative medicine (TCAM) for diabetic foot ulcer management: A systematic review

Diabetic Foot Ulcers (DFUs) are a devastating micro-vascular complication of diabetes with an increased prevalence and incidence and high rate of morbidity and mortality. Since antibiotics are frequently used to treat DFU, managing the condition has proven to be extremely challenging and may eventually lead to the development of antibiotic resistance. Scientists from around the world are working to develop an alternative solution to the problem of drug resistance by exploring complementary and alternative medicines that may be obtained from natural sources. Hence, the review aims to comprehensively report the information on the natural treatments and therapy used to manage DFU. All of the information described in the current study was gathered from electronic scientific resources, including Google Scholar, PubMed, Scopus, Science Direct, and Springer Link. Findings from the current review revealed the pre-clinical and clinical utility of 18 medicinal plants, 1 isolated compound, 7 polyherbal formulations including herbal creams, a few micronutrients including vitamins and minerals, insect products such as propolis, honey and, Maggot debridement therapy for the treatment and management of DFU. Natural therapies possess better efficacy, low cost, and shorter duration of treatment when compared with the conventional treatments; hence, all information made available about them is crucial to alter the direction of treatment. Furthermore, the data presented in this review are up to date on the potential efficacy of natural complementary medicines for alleviating DFU problems in in vitro and in vivo tests, as well as clinical studies.

Supercritical Impregnation of Mesoglycan and Lactoferrin on Polyurethane Electrospun Fibers for Wound Healing Applications

Fibrous membranes of thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) were fabricated through a uni-axial electrospinning process. Fibers were then separately charged with two pharmacological agents, mesoglycan (MSG) and lactoferrin (LF), by supercritical CO₂ impregnation. Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and Energy Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy (EDS) analysis proved the formation of a micrometric structure with a homogeneous distribution of mesoglycan and lactoferrin. Besides, the degree of retention is calculated in four liquid media with different pHs. At the same time, angle contact analysis proved the formation of a hydrophobic membrane loaded with MSG and a hydrophilic LF-loaded one. The impregnation kinetics demonstrated a maximum loaded amount equal to 0.18 ± 0.20% and 0.07 ± 0.05% for MSG and LT, respectively. In vitro tests were performed using a Franz diffusion cell to simulate the contact with the human skin. The release of MSG reaches a plateau after about 28 h while LF release leveled off after 15 h. The in vitro compatibility of electrospun membranes has been evaluated on HaCaT and BJ cell lines, as human keratinocytes and fibroblasts, respectively. The reported data proved the potential application of fabricated membranes for wound healing.

Lactoferrin alleviates cyclophosphamide induced-nephropathy through suppressing the orchestration between Wnt4/β-catenin and ERK1/2/NF-κB signaling and modulating klotho and Nrf2/HO-1 pathway

AIMS

Cyclophosphamide is an alkylating agent with vast arrays of therapeutic activity. Currently, its medical use is limited due to its numerous adverse events, including nephrotoxicity. This study aimed to follow the molecular mechanisms behind the potential renoprotective action of lactoferrin (LF) against cyclophosphamide (CP)-induced renal injury.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

For fulfillment of our aim, Spragw-Dwaly rats were orally administrated LF (300 mg/kg) for seven consecutive days, followed by a single intraperitoneal injection of CP (150 mg/kg).

KEY FINDINGS

Treatment of CP-injured rats with LF significantly reduced the elevated creatinine and blood urea nitrogen (BUN), markedly upregulated Nrf2/HO-1 signaling with consequent increase in renal total antioxidant capacity (TAC) and decrease in renal malondialdehyde (MDA) level. Furthermore, LF treatment significantly reduced the elevated renal p-ERK1/2 expression, tumor necrosis factor-α (TNFα), interleukin-6 (IL-6), nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) levels in CP-treated animals. Interestingly, LF treatment downregulated Wnt4/β-catenin signaling and increased both renal klotho gene expression and serum klotho level. Furthermore, LF treatment reduced apoptosis in kidney tissue via suppressing GSK-3β expression and modulating caspase-3 and Bcl2 levels. Histopathological examination of kidney tissue confirmed the protective effect of LF against CP-induced renal injury.

SIGNIFICANCE

The present findings document the renoprotective effect of LF against CP-induced nephropathy, which may be mediated via suppressing ERK1/2/ NF-κB and Wnt4/β-catenin trajectories and enhancing klotho expression and Nrf2/HO-1 signaling.

Colostrum and Lactoferrin Protect against Side Effects of Therapy with Antibiotics, Anti-inflammatory Drugs and Steroids, and Psychophysical Stress: A Comprehensive Review

In this article, we review the benefits of applying bovine colostrum (BC) and lactoferrin (LF) in animal models and clinical trials that include corticosteroid application and psychic stress, treatment with non-steroid anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and antibiotics. A majority of the reported investigations were performed with native bovine or recombinant human LF, applied alone or in combination with probiotics, as nutraceutics and diet supplements. Apart from reducing adverse side effects of the applied therapeutics, BC and LF augmented their efficacy and improved the wellness of patients. In conclusion, LF and complete native colostrum, preferably administered with probiotic bacteria, are highly recommended for inclusion in therapeutic protocols in NSAIDs and corticosteroid anti-inflammatory, as well as antibiotic, therapies. These colostrum-based products can also be of value for individuals subjected to prolonged psychophysical stress (mediated by endogenous corticosteroids), especially at high ambient temperatures (soldiers and emergency services), as well as physically active people and training athletes. They are also recommended for patients during recovery from trauma and surgery, which are always associated with severe psychophysical stress.

Allogenic Adipose-Derived Stem Cells in Diabetic Foot Ulcer Treatment: Clinical Effectiveness, Safety, Survival in the Wound Site, and Proteomic Impact

Although encouraging results of adipose-derived stem cell (ADSC) use in wound healing are available, the mechanism of action has been studied mainly in vitro and in animals. This work aimed to examine the safety and efficacy of allogenic ADSCs in human diabetic foot ulcer treatment, in combination with the analyses of the wound. Equal groups of 23 participants each received fibrin gel with ADSCs or fibrin gel alone. The clinical effects were assessed at four time points: days 7, 14, 21 and 49. Material collected during debridement from a subset of each group was analyzed for the presence of ADSC donor DNA and proteomic changes. The reduction in wound size was greater at all subsequent visits, significantly on day 21 and 49, and the time to 50% reduction in the wound size was significantly shorter in patients who received ADSCs. Complete healing was achieved at the end of the study in seven patients treated with ADSCs vs. one treated without ADSCs. One week after ADSC application, 34 proteins significantly differentiated the material from both groups, seven of which, i.e., GAPDH, CAT, ACTN1, KRT1, KRT9, SCL4A1, and TPI, positively correlated with the healing rate. We detected ADSC donor DNA up to 21 days after administration. We confirmed ADSC-related improvement in wound healing that correlated with the molecular background, which provides insights into the role of ADSCs in wound healing-a step toward the development of cell-based therapies.

Colostrum Proteins in Protection against Therapy-Induced Injuries in Cancer Chemo- and Radiotherapy: A Comprehensive Review

In this article, we review the benefits of application of colostrum and colostrum-derived proteins in animal models and clinical trials that include chemotherapy with antimetabolic drugs, radiotherapy and surgical interventions. A majority of the reported investigations was performed with bovine colostrum (BC) and native bovine or recombinant human lactoferrin (LF), applied alone, in nutraceutics or in combination with probiotics. Apart from reducing side effects of the applied therapeutics, radiation and surgical procedures, BC and LF augmented their efficacy and improved the wellness of patients. In conclusion, colostrum and colostrum proteins, preferably administered with probiotic bacteria, are highly recommended for inclusion to therapeutic protocols in cancer chemo- and radiotherapy as well as during the surgical treatment of cancer patients.

Natural cocktail of bioactive factors conjugated on nanofibrous dressing for improved wound healing

Any interference in the timely and orderly progression through all the phases of healing process can turn a minor injury into a chronic wound. Most of the wound dressings available in the market are moderately effective and have not shown satisfactory improvement in healing. Along with the appropriate wound management, it is imperative for a dressing to facilitate the wound repair process too. In the present research, we hypothesize to improve the wound healing process by applying cost effective natural cocktail of various bioactive factors. Bovine colostrum contains high levels of immunoglobulins, lactoferrin, hormones and cytokines which play significant role in wound healing. Hence, multifunctional colostrum conjugated PCL-PEG based nanofibrous dressings were developed and analyzed for their physicochemical properties and cellular responses. The dressings were also evaluated for cell migration, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties. In-vivo wound healing ability was validated on a rat wound model. Numerous growth factors present in the colostrum showed their role in stimulation of skin repair and regeneration by direct action on genetic material. Significantly less inflammation in colostrum treated wounds was observed due to anti-inflammatory properties of lactoferrin. Thus obtained results confirmed the suitability of these multifunctional colostrum conjugated nanofibrous dressings for improved wound healing.

The Lactoferrin Phenomenon-A Miracle Molecule

Numerous harmful factors that affect the human body from birth to old age cause many disturbances, e.g., in the structure of the genome, inducing cell apoptosis and their degeneration, which leads to the development of many diseases, including cancer. Among the factors leading to pathological processes, microbes, viruses, gene dysregulation and immune system disorders have been described. The function of a protective agent may be played by lactoferrin as a "miracle molecule", an endogenous protein with a number of favorable antimicrobial, antiviral, antioxidant, immunostimulatory and binding DNA properties. The purpose of this article is to present the broad spectrum of properties and the role that lactoferrin plays in protecting human cells at all stages of life.

Lactoferrin of oral fluid is normal and in Alzheimer's disease: laboratory and diagnostic aspects (review of literature)

The article discusses the clinical value of determining the lactoferrin protein in oral fluid - one of the representatives of the saliva proteome. The review is based on the analysis of modern literature, including systematic reviews, the results of multicenter prospective studies, review and original articles by leading experts in this field, presented in the databases PubMed, Scopus, CyberLeninka. The problems of the preanalytical stage, methods for determining lactoferrin are highlighted and information about its content in mixed saliva according to various authors is provided. Special attention is paid to the clinical and diagnostic value of the level of salivary lactoferrin in Alzheimer's disease. According to most authors, the diagnostic sensitivity of this parameter ranges from 87 to 100%. Some mechanisms of the relationship between this protein and the central nervous system (CNS) are shown. In conclusion, it is concluded that salivary lactoferrin can be an "indicator" of the formation of amyloid plaques and can be considered as one of the reliable biomarkers of Alzheimer's disease. This opinion is based both on fundamental ideas about the global relationship between innate immunity and the central nervous system, and on clinical data. The special advantage of this laboratory test is its non-invasiveness, which makes it more preferable in comparison with the determination of amyloid and tau proteins in the cerebrospinal fluid and blood.

The effect of lactoferrin in aging: role and potential

Aging is frequently accompanied by various types of physiological deterioration, which increases the risk of human pathologies. Global public health efforts to increase human lifespan have increasingly focused on lowering the risk of aging-related diseases, such as diabetes, neurodegenerative diseases, cardiovascular disease, and cancers. Dietary intervention is a promising approach to maintaining human health during aging. Lactoferrin (LF) is known for its physiologically pleiotropic properties. Anti-aging interventions of LF have proven to be safe and effective for various pharmacological activities, such as anti-oxidation, anti-cellular senescence, anti-inflammation, and anti-carcinogenic. Moreover, LF has a pivotal role in modulating the major signaling pathways that influence the longevity of organisms. Thus, LF is expected to be able to attenuate the process of aging and greatly ameliorate its effects.

Zinc-nutrient element based alloys for absorbable wound closure devices fabrication: Current status, challenges, and future prospects

The need for the development of load-bearing, absorbable wound closure devices is driving the research for novel materials that possess both good biodegradability and superior mechanical characteristics. Biodegradable metals (BMs), namely: magnesium (Mg), zinc (Zn) and iron (Fe), which are currently being investigated for absorbable vascular stent and orthopaedic implant applications, are slowly gaining research interest for the fabrication of wound closure devices. The current review presents an overview of the traditional and novel BM-based intracutaneous and transcutaneous wound closure devices, and identifies Zn as a promising substitute for the traditional materials used in the fabrication of absorbable load-bearing sutures, internal staples, and subcuticular staples. In order to further strengthen Zn to be used in highly stressed situations, nutrient elements (NEs), including calcium (Ca), Mg, Fe, and copper (Cu), are identified as promising alloying elements for the strengthening of Zn-based wound closure device material that simultaneously provide potential therapeutic benefit to the wound healing process during implant biodegradation process. The influence of NEs on the fundamental characteristics of biodegradable Zn are reviewed and critically assessed with regard to the mechanical properties and biodegradability requirements of different wound closure devices. The opportunities and challenges in the development of Zn-based wound closure device materials are presented to inspire future research on this rapidly growing field.

Discovery of Lactoferrin as a Stimulant for hADSC-Derived EV Secretion and Proof of Enhancement of Resulting EVs through Skin Model

Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are secreted from hADSCs in low concentrations, which makes it difficult to utilize them for the development of therapeutic products. To overcome the problem associated with low concentration, we proposed human lactoferrin (hLF) as a stimulant for the secretion of hADSC-derived EVs. hLF has been reported to upregulate intracellular Ca²⁺, which is known to be capable of increasing EV secretion. We cultured hADSCs in hLF-supplemented media and analyzed the changes in intracellular Ca²⁺ concentration. The characteristics of hADSC-derived EVs secreted by hLF stimulation were analyzed through their number, membrane protein markers, and the presence of hLFs to EVs. The function of hADSC-derived EVs was investigated through their effects on dermal fibroblasts. We found that hLF helped hADSCs effectively uptake Ca²⁺, resulting in an increase of EVs secretion by more than a factor of 4. The resulting EVs had enhanced proliferation and collagen synthesis effect on dermal fibroblasts when compared to the same number of hADSC-derived EVs secreted without hLF stimulation. The enhanced secretion of hADSC-derived EVs increased collagen synthesis through enhanced epidermal penetration, which resulted from increased EV numbers. In summary, we propose hLF to be a useful stimulant in increasing the secretion rate of hADSC-derived EVs.

Antimicrobial peptides - Unleashing their therapeutic potential using nanotechnology

Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) are potent, mostly cationic, and amphiphilic broad-spectrum host defense antimicrobials that are produced by all organisms ranging from prokaryotes to humans. In addition to their antimicrobial actions, they modulate inflammatory and immune responses and promote wound healing. Although they have clear benefits over traditional antibiotic drugs, their wide therapeutic utilization is compromised by concerns of toxicity, stability, and production costs. Recent advances in nanotechnology have attracted increasing interest to unleash the AMPs' immense potential as broad-spectrum antibiotics and anti-biofilm agents, against which the bacteria have less chances to develop resistance. Topical application of AMPs promotes migration of keratinocytes and fibroblasts, and contributes significantly to an accelerated wound healing process. Delivery of AMPs by employing nanotechnological approaches avoids the major disadvantages of AMPs, such as instability and toxicity, and provides a controlled delivery profile together with prolonged activity. In this review, we provide an overview of the key properties of AMPs and discuss the latest developments in topical AMP therapy using nanocarriers. We use chronic hard-to-heal wounds-complicated by infections, inflammation, and stagnated healing-as an example of an unmet medical need for which the AMPs' wide range of therapeutic actions could provide the most potential benefit. The use of innovative materials and sophisticated nanotechnological approaches offering various possibilities are discussed in more depth.

Lactoferrin may inhibit the development of cancer via its immunostimulatory and immunomodulatory activities (Review)

Lactoferrin (Lf) is secreted by ectodermal tissue and has a structure similar to that of transferrin. Although Lf seems to be multifunctional, its main function is related to the natural defense system of mammals. The present review aims to highlight the major actions of Lf, including the regulation of cell growth, the inhibition of toxic compound formation, the removal of harmful free radicals and its important role in immune response regulation. Moreover, Lf has antibacterial, antiviral, antioxidant, anticancer and anti‑inflammatory activities. In addition, the use of Lf for functionalization of drug nanocarriers, with emphasis on tumor‑targeted drug delivery, is illustrated. Such effects serve as an important theoretical basis for its future development and application. In neurodegenerative diseases and the brains of elderly people, Lf expression is markedly upregulated. Lf may exert an anti‑inflammatory effect by inhibiting the formation of hydroxyl free radicals. Through its antioxidant properties, Lf can prevent DNA damage, thereby preventing tumor formation in the central nervous system. In addition, Lf specifically activates the p53 tumor suppressor gene.

The Ideal Time for Iron Administration in Anemia Secondary to Blood Loss-An Experimental Animal Model

BACKGROUND

Anemia and iron deficiency are two of the main public health problems worldwide, associated with negative outcomes in surgical patients. This experimental study aimed to create a model of acute iron deficiency with anemia through blood loss and extensive surgery. Afterwards, intravenous iron was administered to correct the iron deficiency and to improve the hematological parameters in distinct moments regarding the surgical time. To assess the optimum time for therapeutic intervention, experimental subjects were compared, performing clinical, paraclinical, and histological examinations, as well.

METHODS

Male rats (n = 35), aged 11-13 months, were randomly designated into six groups. Anemia and iron deficiency were obtained through a 15% blood volume loss, followed by major surgical intervention (femur fracture and osteosynthesis using Kirschner wire). Therapeutic intervention was obtained with an intravenous ferric carboxymaltose infusion, as follows: group II: intraoperative (n = 7), group III: 48 h after surgery (n = 7), group IV: 48 h before surgery (n = 5), and group V: seven days before surgery (n = 6). Group I (n = 5) was left anemic, while group 0 (n = 5) was nonanemic without therapeutic intervention.

RESULTS AND DISCUSSION

In group I, serum iron lower than in group 0 (27.04 ± 6.92 μg/dL versus 60.5 ± 2.34 μg/dL), as well as hemoglobin (10.4 ± 0.54 g/dL versus 14.32 ± 2.01 g/dL) and ferritin values (22.52 ± 0.53 ng/mL versus 29.86 ± 3.97 ng/mL), validated the experimental model. Regarding wound healing after surgical trauma, we observed that neovascularization was more significant in group III, followed by group V, with fewer neutrophils, a well-represented and rich in lymphomonocytes inflammatory infiltrate associated with the biggest collagen fiber dimensions. The periosteal reaction and callus area presented thicker trabeculae in groups II and III compared to the anemic group.

CONCLUSIONS

This original experimental study assessed the effect of perioperative intravenous iron administration at a specific time by comparing the weight, hematological, and iron status-defining parameters, as well as histological characteristics of the included subjects. The present findings highlight that correcting the iron deficiency in emergency settings through intravenous iron administration intraoperatively or 48 h postoperatively could determine the improved bioumoral parameters, as well as a better evolution of the postoperative wound and bone healing compared to the anemic group or subjects that received therapeutic intervention 48 h before surgery.

Lactoferrin for Prevention and Treatment of Anemia and Inflammation in Pregnant Women: A Comprehensive Review

Pregnancy is a physiological state that demands higher level of nutrients, including vitamins and minerals, for the growth and maintenance of the fetus. Iron deficiency is a part of most common diet deficiencies in pregnancy and has high clinical significance leading to the development of syderopenic anemia and its consequences for mother and child, such as higher risk of perinatal death, susceptibility to infection, intra-uteral growth inhibition, prematurity and low birth weight. Hence, iron supplementation is recommended for pregnant women; however dietary intake of iron from most commercially available formulas is often insufficient due to iron-poor bioavailability, or have undesired side-effects in the gastrointestinal tract, resulting in a discouraging and distrustful attitude to such treatment. The results of numerous studies indicate that diet supplementation with lactoferrin (LTF), an iron-binding protein, may be advantageous in prophylaxis and treatment of iron deficiency anemia. LTF, administered orally, normalizes iron homeostasis, not only by facilitating iron absorption, but also by inhibiting inflammatory processes responsible for anemia of chronic diseases, characterized by a functional iron deficit for physiological processes. LTF also protects against infections and inflammatory complications, caused by diagnostic surgical interventions in pregnant women. Beneficial, multidirectional actions of LTF during pregnancy encompass, in addition, inhibition of oxidative stress, normalization of intestine and genital tract microbiota and carbohydrate-lipid metabolism, protection of intestine barrier function, promotion of wound healing, as well as hypotensive, analgesic and antistress actions. Bovine lactoferrin (BLTF) is readily available on the nutritional market and generally recognized as safe (GRAS) for use in human diet.

Functionalization of Aminoalkylsilane-Grafted Bacterial Nanocellulose with ZnO-NPs-Doped Pullulan Electrospun Nanofibers for Multifunctional Wound Dressing

High moisture permeability, excellent mechanical properties in a wet state, high water-holding capability, and high exudate absorption make bacterial nanocellulose (BNC) a favorable candidate for biomedical device production, especially wound dressings. The lack of antibacterial activity and healing-promoting ability are the main drawbacks that limit its wide application. Pullulan (Pul) is a nontoxic polymer that can promote wound healing. Zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO-NPs) are well-known as a safe antibacterial agent. In this study, aminoalkylsilane was chemically grafted on a BNC membrane (A-g-BNC) and used as a bridge to combine BNC with Pul-ZnO-NPs hybrid electrospun nanofibers. FTIR results confirmed the successful production of A-g-BNC/Pul-ZnO. The obtained dressing demonstrated blood clotting performance better than that of BNC. The dressing showed an ability to release ZnO, and its antibacterial activity was up to 5 log values higher than that of BNC. The cytotoxicity of the dressing toward L929 fibroblast cells clearly showed safety due to the proliferation of fibroblast cells. The animal test in a rat model indicated faster healing and re-epithelialization, small blood vessel formation, and collagen synthesis in the wounds covered by A-g-BNC/Pul-ZnO. The new functional dressing, fabricated with a cost-effective and easy method, not only showed excellent antibacterial activity but could also accelerate wound healing.

Enhanced wound repair ability of arginine-chitosan nanocomposite membrane through the antimicrobial peptides-loaded polydopamine-modified graphene oxide

Skin wound healing is a complicated and lengthy process, which is influenced by multiple factors and need a suitable cellular micro-environment. For skin wound, wound dressings remain a cornerstone of dermatologic therapy at present. The dressing material can create an effective protective environment for the wound, and the interactions between the dressing and the wound has a great impact on the wound healing efficiency. An ideal wound dressing materials should have good biocompatibility, moisturizing property, antibacterial property and mechanical strength, and can effectively prevent wound infection and promote wound healing. In this study, in order to design wound dressing materials endowed with excellent antibacterial and tissue repair properties, we attempted to load antimicrobial peptides onto dopmine-modified graphene oxide (PDA@GO) using lysozyme (ly) as a model drug. Then, functionalized GO was used to the surface modification of arginine-modified chitosan (CS-Arg) membrane. To evaluate the potential of the prepared nanocomposite membrane in wound dressing application, the surface morphology, hydrophilic, mechanical properties, antimicrobial activity, and cytocompatibility of the resulting nanocomposite membrane were analyzed. The results revealed that prepared nanocomposite membrane exhibited excellent hydrophilic, mechanical strength and antimicrobial activity, which can effectively promote cell growth and adhesion. In particular, using PDA@GO as drug carrier can effectively maintain the activity of antimicrobial peptides, and can maximize the antibacterial properties of the nanocomposite membrane. Finally, we used rat full-thickness wound models to observe wound healing, and the surface interactions between the prepared nanocomposite membrane and the wound. The results indicated that nanocomposite membrane can obviously accelerated wound closure, and the wounds showed reduced inflammation, improved angiogenesis and accelerated re-epithelialization. Therefore, incorporation of antimicrobial peptides-functionalize graphene oxide (ly-PDA@GO) into CS-Arg membrane was a viable strategy for fabricating excellent wound dressing. Together, this study not only prepared a wound dressing with excellent tissue repair ability, but also provided a novel idea for the development of graphene oxide-based antibacterial dressing.

The promising pro-healing role of the association of mesoglycan and lactoferrin on skin lesions

Skin wound repair represents an important topic for the therapeutic challenges. Many molecules are commonly used as active principles of topical devices to induce the correct tissue regeneration. Among these molecules, mesoglycan, a mixture of glycosaminoglycans, and the lactoferrin have recently aroused interest. Here, for the first time, we used mesoglycan/lactoferrin to treat the cell populations mainly involved in wound healing. We showed that human keratinocytes, fibroblasts and endothelial cells migrate and invade more rapidly when treated with the association. Moreover, we found that mesoglycan/lactoferrin, are able to trigger the differentiation process of keratinocytes, the switch of the fibroblasts into myofibroblasts, the acquisition of a mesenchymal phenotype for the endothelial cells which, in this way, start to form the capillary-like structures. Additionally, we proved that the well known antimicrobial behavior of lactoferrin encourages the inhibition of S. aureus and P. aeruginosa biofilm formation by the whole association, providing an appealing feature for this formulation. Finally, by the in vivo analysis, we showed that the mesoglycan/lactoferrin favors the closure of skin wounds performed on the mice back. Beside the decrease of the lesion diameters, by a confocal analysis of mice biopsies we found that the use of the association strongly promote cell activation underlying the correct tissue regeneration. These results encourage to further investigation aiming the development of a new topical patch that includes this association.

Homogeneous and efficient production of a bacterial nanocellulose-lactoferrin-collagen composite under an electric field as a matrix to promote wound healing

BNC was functionalized with collagen (COL) and lactoferrin (LF) to form three different composites: BNC/COL, BNC/LF and BNC/LF/COL using a novel electrophoresis-based technology. The technology is less time-consuming than traditional immersion-adsorption methods and offers the additional advantages of greater protein loading, better homogeneity and a lower requirement for processing solution. Significantly, it has general applicability and great potential for fabricating other similar composites. The water-holding capability and water vapor transmission rate (WVTR) of BNC composites were significantly improved, particularly in the case of BNC/LF/COL, with a WVTR of 2600 g m-2 d-1, indicating that the composite maintains a moderately moist environment over the wound bed, which would enhance epithelial cell migration during the healing process. Compared with BNC and BNC/COL, the LF-impregnated composites mediated a reduction in bacterial viability of at least 77%. Impregnation with COL significantly improved the cytocompatibility of BNC composites to promote the adhesion and proliferation of fibroblast cells. Furthermore, a greater therapeutic effect of BNC/LF/COL was observed in a rat model of wound healing, with a new epithelium formed within 9 days and without any significant adverse reactions. These results suggest that BNC/LF/COL obtained using the electrophoresis method represents a promising wound dressing for use in practical applications.

Lactoferrin as a regenerative agent: The old-new panacea?

Lactoferrin (Lf) possesses various biological properties and therapeutic potentials being a perspective anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antiviral, antioxidant, antitumor, and immunomodulatory agent. A significant body of literature has also demonstrated that Lf modulates regenerative processes in different anatomical structures, such as bone, cartilage, skin, mucosa, cornea, tendon, vasculature, and adipose tissue. Hence, this review collected and analyzed the data on the regenerative effects of Lf, as well as paid specific attention to their molecular basis. Furthermore, tissue and condition-specific activities of different Lf types as well as problems of their delivery to the targeted organs were discussed. The authors strongly hope that this review will stimulate researchers to focus on the highlighted topics thus accelerating the progress of Lf's wider clinical application.

In the Age of Viral Pandemic, Can Ingredients Inspired by Human Milk and Infant Nutrition Be Repurposed to Support the Immune System?

In 2020, with the advent of a pandemic touching all aspects of global life, there is a renewed interest in nutrition solutions to support the immune system. Infants are vulnerable to infection and breastfeeding has been demonstrated to provide protection. As such, human milk is a great model for sources of functional nutrition ingredients, which may play direct roles in protection against viral diseases. This review aims to summarize the literature around human milk (lactoferrin, milk fat globule membrane, osteopontin, glycerol monolaurate and human milk oligosaccharides) and infant nutrition (polyunsaturated fatty acids, probiotics and postbiotics) inspired ingredients for support against viral infections and the immune system more broadly. We believe that the application of these ingredients can span across all life stages and thus apply to both pediatric and adult nutrition. We highlight the opportunities for further research in this field to help provide tangible nutrition solutions to support one's immune system and fight against infections.

Lactoferrin and oral pathologies: a therapeutic treatment

The oral cavity is a non-uniform, extraordinary environment characterized by mucosal, epithelial, abiotic surfaces and secretions as saliva. Aerobic and anaerobic commensal and pathogenic microorganisms colonize the tongue, teeth, jowl, gingiva, and periodontium. Commensals exert an important role in host defenses, while pathogenic microorganisms can nullify this protective function causing oral and systemic diseases. Every day, 750-1000 mL of saliva, containing several host defense constituents including lactoferrin (Lf), are secreted and swallowed. Lf is a multifunctional iron-chelating cationic glycoprotein of innate immunity. Depending on, or regardless of its iron-binding ability, Lf exerts bacteriostatic, bactericidal, antibiofilm, antioxidant, antiadhesive, anti-invasive, and anti-inflammatory activities. Here, we report the protective role of Lf in different oral pathologies, such as xerostomia, halitosis, alveolar or maxillary bone damage, gingivitis, periodontitis, and black stain. Unlike antibiotic therapy, which is ineffective against bacteria that are within a biofilm, adherent, or intracellular, the topical administration of Lf, through its simultaneous activity against microbial replication, biofilms, adhesion, and invasiveness, as well as inflammation, has been proven to be efficient in the treatment of all known oral pathologies without any adverse effects.

Homogeneous and efficient production of a bacterial nanocellulose-lactoferrin-collagen composite under an electric field as a matrix to promote wound healing

A novel BNC/LF/COL membrane fabricated using an electrophoresis-based technology showed superior advantages in water-holding capability and antibacterial activity, with higher cytocompatibility as well as greater therapeutic effect in wound healing.

Lactoferrin, a multi-functional glycoprotein: Active therapeutic, drug nanocarrier & targeting ligand

Recent progress in protein-based nanomedicine, inspired by the success of Abraxane® albumin-paclitaxel nanoparticles, have resulted in novel therapeutics used for treatment of challenging diseases like cancer and viral infections. However, absence of specific drug targeting, poor pharmacokinetics, premature drug release, and off-target toxicity are still formidable challenges in the clinic. Therefore, alternative protein-based nanomedicines were developed to overcome those challenges. In this regard, lactoferrin (Lf), a glycoprotein of transferrin family, offers a promising biodegradable well tolerated material that could be exploited both as an active therapeutic and drug nanocarrier. This review highlights the major pharmacological actions of Lf including anti-cancer, antiviral, and immunomodulatory actions. Delivery technologies of Lf to improve its pries and enhance its efficacy were also reviewed. Moreover, different nano-engineering strategies used for fabrication of drug-loaded Lf nanocarriers were discussed. In addition, the use of Lf for functionalization of drug nanocarriers with emphasis on tumor-targeted drug delivery was illustrated. Besides its wide application in oncology nano-therapeutics, we discussed the recent advances of Lf-based nanocarriers as efficient platforms for delivery of anti-parkinsonian, anti-Alzheimer, anti-viral drugs, immunomodulatory and bone engineering applications.

Lactoferrin-Derived Peptides as a Control Strategy against Skinborne Staphylococcal Biofilms

Coagulase-negative staphylococci (CoNS) widely colonize the human skin and play an active role in host defense. However, these bacteria may cause malodours and increase infection incidence rate in immune-compromised patients and individuals with catheters and implants. CoNS spreading is favored by biofilm formation that also promotes the release of virulence factors and drug resistance. Biofilm control or eradication by antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) represents an attractive strategy which is worth investigating. In this work, bovine lactoferrin (BLF) hydrolysate (HLF) was in vitro evaluated for its antimicrobial and antibiofilm activities against skin-related coagulase negative and positive staphylococci. Despite a minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC) recorded for HLF ranging from 10 to more than 20 mg/mL, a minimal biofilm inhibitory concentration (MIBC) equal to 2.5 mg/mL was found for most target strains. Conversely, MIBC values referred to the individual peptides, LFcinB or LFmpin (herein purified and identified) were significantly lower. Finally, the application of 2.5 mg/mL HLF solution by dipping and spraying on biofilm-attached glass surfaces also caused a high biofilm eradication rate depending on the incubation time, thus attracting interest for future applications in cosmetic formulation for skin care.

Lactoferrin's Anti-Cancer Properties: Safety, Selectivity, and Wide Range of Action

Despite recent advances in cancer therapy, current treatments, including radiotherapy, chemotherapy, and immunotherapy, although beneficial, present attendant side effects and long-term sequelae, usually more or less affecting quality of life of the patients. Indeed, except for most of the immunotherapeutic agents, the complete lack of selectivity between normal and cancer cells for radio- and chemotherapy can make them potential antagonists of the host anti-cancer self-defense over time. Recently, the use of nutraceuticals as natural compounds corroborating anti-cancer standard therapy is emerging as a promising tool for their relative abundance, bioavailability, safety, low-cost effectiveness, and immuno-compatibility with the host. In this review, we outlined the anti-cancer properties of Lactoferrin (Lf), an iron-binding glycoprotein of the innate immune defense. Lf shows high bioavailability after oral administration, high selectivity toward cancer cells, and a wide range of molecular targets controlling tumor proliferation, survival, migration, invasion, and metastasization. Of note, Lf is able to promote or inhibit cell proliferation and migration depending on whether it acts upon normal or cancerous cells, respectively. Importantly, Lf administration is highly tolerated and does not present significant adverse effects. Moreover, Lf can prevent development or inhibit cancer growth by boosting adaptive immune response. Finally, Lf was recently found to be an ideal carrier for chemotherapeutics, even for the treatment of brain tumors due to its ability to cross the blood-brain barrier, thus globally appearing as a promising tool for cancer prevention and treatment, especially in combination therapies.

Non-antibiotic antimicrobial interventions and antimicrobial stewardship in wound care

Control of wound infection today relies largely on antibiotics, but the continual emergence of antibiotic-resistant microorganisms threatens a return to the pre-antibiotic era when physicians used antiseptics to prevent and manage infection. Some of those antiseptics are still used today, and others have become available. A diverse variety of non-antibiotic antimicrobial interventions are found on modern formularies. Unlike the mode of action of antibiotics, which affect specific cellular target sites of pathogens, many non-antibiotic antimicrobials affect multiple cellular target sites in a non-specific way. Although this reduces the likelihood of selecting for resistant strains of microorganisms, some have emerged and cross-resistance between antibiotics and antiseptics has been detected. With the prospect of a post-antibiotic era looming, ways to maintain and extend our antimicrobial armamentarium must be found. In this narrative review, current and emerging non-antibiotic antimicrobial strategies will be considered and the need for antimicrobial stewardship in wound care will be explained.

Bioinorganics and Wound Healing

Wound dressings and the healing enhancement (increasing healing speed and quality) are two components of wound care that lead to a proper healing. Wound care today consists mostly of providing an optimal environment by removing waste and necrotic tissues from a wound, preventing infections, and keeping the wounds adequately moist. This is however often not enough to re-establish the healing process in chronic wounds; with the local disruption of vascularization, the local environment is lacking oxygen, nutrients, and has a modified ionic and molecular concentration which limits the healing process. This disruption may affect cellular ionic pumps, energy production, chemotaxis, etc., and will affect the healing process. Biomaterials for wound healing range from simple absorbents to sophisticated bioactive delivery vehicles. Often placing a material in or on a wound can change multiple parameters such as pH, ionic concentration, and osmolarity, and it can be challenging to pinpoint key mechanism of action. This article reviews the literature of several inorganic ions and molecules and their potential effects on the different wound healing phases and their use in new wound dressings.

Silkworm Silk Matrices Coated with Functionalized Spider Silk Accelerate Healing of Diabetic Wounds

Complex cutaneous wounds like diabetic foot ulcers represent a critical clinical challenge and demand a large-scale and low-cost strategy for effective treatment. Herein, we use a rabbit animal model to investigate efficacy of bioactive wound dressings made up of silk biomaterials. Nanofibrous mats of Antheraea assama silkworm silk fibroin (AaSF) are coated with various recombinant spider silk fusion proteins through silk-silk interactions to fabricate multifunctional wound dressings. Two different types of spider silk coatings are used to compare their healing efficiency: FN-4RepCT (contains a cell binding motif derived from fibronectin) and Lac-4RepCT (contains a cationic antimicrobial peptide from lactoferricin). AaSF mats coated with spider silk show accelerated wound healing properties in comparison to the uncoated mats. Among the spider silk coated variants, dual coating of FN-4RepCT and Lac-4RepCT on top of AaSF mat demonstrated better wound healing efficiency, followed by FN-4RepCT and Lac-4RepCT single coated counterparts. The in vivo study also reveals excellent skin regeneration by the functionalized silk dressings in comparison to commercially used Duoderm dressing and untreated wounds. The spider silk coatings demonstrate early granulation tissue development, re-epithelialization, and efficient matrix remodelling of wounds. The results thus validate potential of bioactive silk matrices in faster repair of diabetic wounds.

Sodium ascorbate (SA) and l-ascorbic acid (AA) as modifiers of burn affected skin - A comparative analysis

Proper functioning of living organisms requires controlling the factors which govern the level of oxidative stress in the system, that is presence of free radicals at a given, rather low, level and preventing their excess. In this work it is shown that SA and AA active antioxidants, governing the oxidative stress in the wound, modify standard serum solution as well as burn affected necrotic eschar at the molecular structure level. In the case of incubation of skin fragments in SA and AA, the following findings were reported: modification of serum, that is appearance of low molecular weight oligomer bands in AA and recreation of native serum bands in SA. In frozen serum solutions modified by AA FTIR 1759 and 1420-1053 cm^-1 bands are observed, whereas in SA FTIR 1603, 1411-1054 and 536 cm^-1 bands appear. In the case of modification of the burn affected necrotic eschar in SA and AA - frequency shifts in the fingerprint region 1780-1000 cm^-1 can be biomarkers indicating tissue regeneration process under the influence of antioxidants. 1780-1580 cm^-1 and 1418-1250 cm^-1 regions on the Raman spectra are particularly rich in spectral information. Modification of samples of skin burnt with AA activates the regions of the β-sheet aggregates whereas treatment of the samples with SA ascorbate demonstrates changes which testify to reconstruction of α-helix structure (SAXS studies).

SIKVAV-Modified Chitosan Hydrogel as a Skin Substitutes for Wound Closure in Mice

Skin wound healing is a complex and dynamic process that involves angiogenesis and growth factor secretion. Newly formed vessels can provide nutrition and oxygen for skin wound healing. Growth factors in skin wounds are important for keratinocytes and fibroblasts proliferation, epithelialization, extracellular matrix remodeling, and angiogenesis, which accelerate skin wound healing. Therefore, treatment strategies that enhance angiogenesis and growth factors secretion in skin wounds can accelerate skin wound healing. This study investigated the effects of a SIKVAV (Ser-Ile-Lys-Val-Ala-Val) peptide-modified chitosan hydrogel on skin wound healing. Hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) staining demonstrated that the SIKVAV-modified chitosan hydrogel accelerated the re-epithelialization of wounds compared with that seen in the negative and positive controls. Masson's trichrome staining showed that more collagen fibers were deposited in the skin wounds treated with the SIKVAV-modified chitosan hydrogel than in the negative and positive controls. Immunohistochemistry assays demonstrated that more myofibroblasts were deposited and more angiogenesis occurred in skin wounds treated with the SIKVAV-modified chitosan hydrogel than in the negative and positive controls. In addition, ELISA assays showed that the SIKVAV-modified chitosan hydrogels promoted the secretion of growth factors in skin wounds. Taken together, these results suggest that the SIKVAV-modified chitosan hydrogel has the potential to be developed as synthesized biomaterials for the treatment of skin wounds.

Recombinant Spider Silk Functionalized Silkworm Silk Matrices as Potential Bioactive Wound Dressings and Skin Grafts

Silk is considered to be a potential biomaterial for a wide number of biomedical applications. Silk fibroin (SF) can be retrieved in sufficient quantities from the cocoons produced by silkworms. While it is easy to formulate into scaffolds with favorable mechanical properties, the natural SF does not contain bioactive functions. Spider silk proteins, on the contrary, can be produced in fusion with bioactive protein domains, but the recombinant procedures are expensive, and large-scale production is challenging. We combine the two types of silk to fabricate affordable, functional tissue-engineered constructs for wound-healing applications. Nanofibrous mats and microporous scaffolds made of natural silkworm SF are used as a bulk material that are top-coated with the recombinant spider silk protein (4RepCT) in fusion with a cell-binding motif, antimicrobial peptides, and a growth factor. For this, the inherent silk properties are utilized to form interactions between the two silk types by self-assembly. The intended function, that is, improved cell adhesion, antimicrobial activity, and growth factor stimulation, could be demonstrated for the obtained functionalized silk mats. As a skin prototype, SF scaffolds coated with functionalized silk are cocultured with multiple cell types to demonstrate formation of a bilayered tissue construct with a keratinized epidermal layer under in vitro conditions. The encouraging results support this strategy of fabrication of an affordable bioactive SF-spider silk-based biomaterial for wound dressings and skin substitutes.