Lactoferrin and Its Potential Impact for the Relief of Pain: A Preclinical Approach Original paper

What was studied?

This review examined the anti-nociceptive (pain-relieving) properties of bovine lactoferrin (bLf) based on preclinical research. It focused on the potential of bLf as an adjunct to conventional pain therapies, specifically opioids and NSAIDs, to enhance their efficacy and reduce side effects. The study explored the mechanisms of bLf’s action in pain management, particularly its anti-inflammatory and anti-nociceptive effects, which involve pathways such as DAMP–TLR4–TRAF6–NFκB and NO–cGMP–ATP-sensitive K+ channels. The review analyzed findings from animal models and suggested that bLf might help mitigate pain through both peripheral and central mechanisms.

Who was studied?

The review draws primarily from preclinical studies using animal models, including rats subjected to various pain-inducing conditions like formalin-induced nociceptive behavior, hot plate tests for thermal nociception, and chronic inflammatory models such as adjuvant-induced arthritis. Studies focused on the effects of bLf administered either systemically or via local injections. These models provided insights into the analgesic effects of bLf in both acute and chronic pain scenarios, including neuropathic and nociplastic pain.

Most important findings

The review found that bLf exhibited significant anti-nociceptive effects across various pain models. In rats, bLf administration (100 mg/kg) reduced formalin-induced nociceptive behavior and decreased thermal and visceral pain responses in the hot plate and acetic acid writhing tests. Furthermore, bLf showed anti-hyperalgesic and anti-allodynic properties in neuropathic pain models, including chronic constriction injury (CCI) and mental nerve transection (MNT). The review also highlighted that bLf’s effects on pain were linked to its ability to modulate the NO–cGMP–ATP-sensitive K+ channel signaling pathway and interact with the opioid receptor system, enhancing the efficacy of opioids like morphine.

Key implications

Bovine lactoferrin’s demonstrated anti-nociceptive and anti-inflammatory properties suggest its potential as an adjunct to traditional pain treatments. Its ability to enhance the effectiveness of opioids and reduce the side effects associated with chronic pain management, such as tolerance, dependence, and addiction, presents an important therapeutic opportunity. However, further studies are necessary to understand its mechanisms of action fully and to optimize its clinical use, particularly concerning dosage, administration routes, and long-term safety.