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Lactoferrin (Lf), a multifunctional glycoprotein, is an important antimicrobial and immune regulatory protein present in neutrophils and most exocrine secretions of mammals. Lactoferricin (Lfcin) is located in the N-terminal region of this protein. In this review, the current state of research into Lf and Lfcin in China is described. Searching with HistCite software in Web Sci located 118 papers published by Chinese researchers from 2011-2015, making China one of the top 3 producers of Lf research and development in the world. The biological functions of Lf and Lfcin are discussed, including antibacterial, antiviral, antifungal, anticarcinogenic, and anti-inflammatory activities; targeted drug delivery, induction of neurocyte, osteoblast, and tenocyte growth, and possible mechanisms of action. The preparation and heterologous expression of Lf in animals, bacteria, and yeast are discussed in detail. Five Lf-related food additive factories and 9 Lf-related health food production companies are certified by the China Food and Drug Administration (CFDA). The latest progress in the generation of transgenic livestock in China, the safety of the use of transgenic animals, and future prospects for the uses of Lf and Lfcin are also covered. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article presents prospective on multiple biological activities of lactoferrin contributing to piglet welfare. Topics discussed include this review examines the following known beneficial effects of lactoferrin: improves the digestion and capacity for absorption in the intestinal tract; and promotes the absorption of iron and reduces the incidence of iron deficiency anemia.

Piglets, especially weaning piglets, show a lower level of immunity and higher morbidity and mortality, owing to their rapid growth, physiological immaturity, and gradual reduction of maternal antibodies, which seriously affects their growth and thus, value. It is important that piglets adapt to nutrient digestion and absorption and develop sound intestinal function and colonization with gut microbiota as soon as possible during their early life stage. Lactoferrin is a natural glycoprotein polypeptide that is part of the transferrin family. It is widely found in mucosal secretions such as saliva and tears, and most highly in milk and colostrum. As a multifunctional bioactive protein and a recommended food additive, lactoferrin is a potential alternative therapy to antibiotics and health promoting additive for piglet nutrition and development. It is expected that lactoferrin, as a natural food additive, could play an important role in maintaining pig health and development. This review examines the following known beneficial effects of lactoferrin: improves the digestion and capacity for absorption in the intestinal tract; promotes the absorption of iron and reduces the incidence of iron deficiency anemia; regulates intestinal function and helps to balance the microbial biota; and enhances the resistance to disease of the piglets via modulating and enhancing the immune system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]