ANTIMICROBIAL FACTORS IN HUMAN MILK

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Abstract
Levels of immunoglobulins, lactoferrin and lysozyme were determined in milk samples obtained from well-nourished and under-nourished Indian women at different stages of lactation. The concentration of immunoglobulins and lactoferrin was higher in colostrum than in mature milk while the lysozyme levels showed a progressive increase with the period of lactation. There were no significant differences in the levels between the 2 groups of women. Administration of Fe did not alter the total or percentage saturation of lactoferrin in milk. Antibacterial factors in milk are apparently not influenced by the nutritional status of the mother. Fe supplementation apparently does not interfere with the bacteriostatic function of lactoferrin.