Lactoferrin-binding receptor (tentative; canonical full name not standardized) (null)

Lactoferrin is a glycoprotein known for its selective uptake by certain cancer cells, mediated by *lactoferrin-binding receptors* or proteins overexpressed on the tumor cell surface[2][5][6]. This characteristic has been exploited for targeted delivery of anticancer drugs or imaging agents, taking advantage of the receptors’ ability to facilitate receptor-mediated endocytosis. While specific receptors such as INTL1 have been proposed in the context of hepatocellular carcinoma[6], the molecular identity of lactoferrin receptors is not yet fully standardized in oncology. The selectivity is thought to be partly due to cancer cells’ increased expression of membrane glycosaminoglycans, sialic acids, and proteoglycans, which interact with lactoferrin’s positively charged domains[1][2]. The clinical relevance of lactoferrin’s targeting pathway includes enhanced anticancer efficacy and reduced toxicity for healthy tissues[1][2][5].

Other names

Lactoferrin receptorLf receptorINTL1Lactoferrin-binding proteins

Selective binding and uptake by cancer cells via electrostatic or molecular recognition of cell-surface receptors Enhanced endocytosis mediating delivery of cytotoxic agents or imaging probes specifically into tumor cells