Oral supplementation with bovine whey-derived Ig-rich fraction and lactoferrin improves SCORAD and DLQI in atopic dermatitis

Abstract

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a chronic but relapsing skin condition, which has a substantial impact on quality of life [1]. Concerns regarding side effects of medications have led to interest in non-pharmacological interventions [2]. While the cellular and molecular mechanisms of AD continue to be elucidated, the immune – skin microbiota aberrations associated with AD [3] are progressively being utilised as a basis for novel treatments for this inflammatory disease. Bovine-derived immune proteins with immunomodulatory properties, such as lactoferrin and the Ig-rich fraction from whey [4], are being investigated for their effectiveness in AD. Immunoglobulins are key effector molecules produced by plasma cells as part of the adaptive immune response. Lactoferrin is a constitutive component of mucosal secretions and limits bacterial colonisation through iron scavenging. More recently, evidence of a role for lactoferrin in limiting chronic inflammation by linking innate and adaptive immune processes [5] suggests that there may be promise in the use of bovine whey-derived immune proteins in chronic inflammatory diseases