liposomal bovine lactoferrin

Liposomal bovine lactoferrin is an investigational biologic therapy and nutraceutical formulation developed by researchers at the University of Rome Tor Vergata for the treatment of COVID-19. It consists of bovine lactoferrin (bLf), a multifunctional cationic glycoprotein from the transferrin family, encapsulated within liposomes to enhance stability and bioavailability. The treatment is administered through a combination of oral capsules and intranasal spray. Its mechanism of action involves a pleiotropic antiviral effect: it binds directly to the SARS-CoV-2 Spike S glycoprotein and host cell surface heparan sulfate proteoglycans (HSPGs), effectively blocking the virus from attaching to the ACE2 receptor and entering host cells. Additionally, its iron-chelating properties help sequester ferric ions necessary for viral replication and modulate the inflammatory response. The formulation was evaluated in a Phase 2 pilot study (NCT04475120) for its efficacy in accelerating viral clearance and symptom recovery in asymptomatic and mild-to-moderate COVID-19 patients.

Brand names

Apolact

Other names

bovine lactoferrinbLfliposomal lactoferrin