lactoperoxidase

Lactoperoxidase is a mammalian **heme peroxidase enzyme** primarily found in milk, saliva, tears, airway secretions, and other mucosal glands. Its main function is to catalyze the oxidation of molecules such as thiocyanate, iodide, and bromide in the presence of hydrogen peroxide, generating **potent antimicrobial agents** like hypothiocyanite and hypoiodite. These products impart broad **antibacterial, antiviral, and antifungal activities**. Lactoperoxidase plays a vital role in the innate immune defense system, particularly as a **natural antimicrobial** in mucosal surfaces, food preservation, oral care (anticaries and antiplaque), cosmetics, and is under research for therapeutic applications in cancer and immunomodulation[1][2][3][4][5].

Other names

LPOlactoperoxidase systemEC 1.11.1.7EC1.11.1.7EC-1.11.1.7