Is the antiviral protein human lactoferrin distributed in the body to cytomegalovirus ( CMV ) infection-prone cells and tissues?
The affinity of hLF for endothelial cells and leukocytes, and its penetration into the lymphatic system, indicates that this protein reaches target cells and body compartments that are crucial for CMV and HIV replication. The ability to reach the blood compartment after intraperitoneal dosing offers opportunities for parenteral administration of the protein in future studies on its antiviral effects in vivo.
These findings suggest that the change in cholesterol level may be a marker of disease progression in patients with PNTM disease.