Abstract: Like many metal-binding proteins, lactoferrin is an iron-binding glycoprotein found in high concentrations in human and bovine milk, in the granules of neutrophils and several mucosal secretions. Many biological functions have been ascribed to LF (lactoferrin). It is a component of the non-specific immune system with distinct antiviral properties. This pape reviews the present knowledge about the antiviral activities and, when possible, the antiviral modes of action of this protein. Lactoferrin displays antiviral activity against HIV, both DNA- and RNA-viruses, including rotavirus, respiratory syncytial virus, and herpes viruses. The most antiviral effects of LF are in the early phase of infection. Lactoferrin prevents entry of virus in the host cell, either by blocking cellular receptors, or by direct binding to the virus particles. This obviously is quite different from the cytokine such as INF before.

Key words: lactoferrin, antiviral, review, milk, mechanism