ABSTRACT

This review aimed to gather information about the biological effects of bovine colostrum (BC) supplementation for improving the respiratory health in humans and the potential role of bioactive molecules from BC as adjunctive therapy for SARS-CoV-2 infection (Coronavirus Disease 2019 – COVID-19). Several studies have shown that BC supplementation is effective against infections and respiratory allergies, as well as in attenuating immunosuppression caused by intense exercise in high-performance athletes. The major immune system modulation proteins present in BC are immunoglobulins, lactoferrin and transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β). Studies have revealed that lactoferrin is effective in combating SARS-CoV-2. Hyperimmune colostrum may constitute an alternative way to produce specific antibodies against COVID-19. Based on the immune system boosting ability as well as anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and antiviral/antibacterial activities, we suggest that well designed, randomized, placebo-controlled, multicenter clinical trials should be done to verify the safety and effectiveness of BC supplements against SARS-CoV-2 infection.

摘要

这篇综述旨在收集有关牛初乳（BC）补充剂对改善人类呼吸系统健康的生物学效应以及BC中生物活性分子作为SARS-CoV-2感染辅助治疗的潜在作用的信息（Coronavirus Disease 2019 – COVID- 19）。多项研究表明，补充BC可以有效抵抗感染和呼吸道过敏，并能减轻高水平运动员因过度运动而引起的免疫抑制。BC中主要的免疫系统调节蛋白是免疫球蛋白，乳铁蛋白和转化生长因子-β（TGF-β）。研究表明，乳铁蛋白可有效对抗SARS-CoV-2。超免疫初乳可能构成产生针对COVID-19的特异性抗体的替代方法。