Potential of Lactoferrin in the Prevention of Preterm Delivery

Summary 

Objective

Chorioamnionitis (CAM), an ascending infection from maternal bacterial vaginosis or cervicitis, can cause preterm delivery. We hypothesized that lactoferrin (LF), in particular recombinant human LF (rh-LF), may prevent preterm delivery. We conducted three experiments to demonstrate LF's ability to prevent preterm delivery.

Materials and Methods

First, we correlated human cervical mucus LF concentration and LF and interleukin- 6 (IL-6) concentrations in amniotic fluid to gestational weeks, in mothers with and without CAM. Second, using an amnion cell culture system, we studied the preventive effect of rh-LF on inflammatory cytokine production induced by lipopolysaccharide. Using human cervical gland cell lines, we studied the preventive effects of rh-LF on the growth of Escherichia coli. Thirdly, we studied the preventive effect of rh-LF in mouse and rabbit models of preterm delivery. We also examined LF's preventive effect on the production of inflammatory cytokines in maternal serum and amniotic fluid.

Results

In mothers with CAM, amniotic fluid LF concentrations were elevated and IL-6 production increased as fetal LF levels and inflammation increased. LF administration prevented IL-6 production, demonstrating LF's anti-cytokine action and control over E. coli. Length of pregnancy was extended and fetal survival rates were higher in mothers who received LF.

Conclusion

It appears that LF is highly beneficial in the prevention of preterm delivery and improving poor fetal prognosis due to elevated inflammatory cytokine levels. Specifically, rh-LF may prevent the production of inflammatory cytokines under E. coli infection or control maternal cytokine production.

Key Words:  chorioamnionitis , lactoferrin , preterm delivery

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