Bovine Colostrum Treatment of Specific Cancer Types: Current Evidence and Future Opportunities

Abstract

Worldwide, the incidence of cancer is on the rise. Current cancer treatments include chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and surgery. Chemotherapy and radiation treatment are typically associated with severe adverse effects and a decline in patients’ quality of life. Anti-cancer substances derived from plants and animals need to be evaluated therapeutically as it is cost-effective, have fewer side effects, and can improve cancer patients’ quality of life. Recently, bovine colostrum (BC) has attracted the interest of numerous researchers investigating its anti-cancer potential in humans. Dressings loaded with BC are beneficial in treating chronic wounds and diabetic foot ulcers. Lactoferrin, a glycoprotein with potent anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer, and anti-microbial effects, is abundant in BC. The BC pills successfully promote the regression of low-grade cervical intraepithelial neoplasia when administered intravaginally. The biological, genetic, and molecular mechanisms driving BC remain to be determined. Oral BC supplements are generally well-tolerated, but some flatulence and nausea may happen. To evaluate the therapeutic effects, long-term safety, and appropriate dosages of BC drugs, well-designed clinical trials are necessary. The purpose of this article is to emphasize the anti-cancer potential of BC and its constituents.

Assessment of Integrative Therapeutic Methods for Improving the Quality of Life and Functioning in Cancer Patients—A Systematic Review

“…Specific constituents of BC, such as lactoferrin, CLA, and alpha-lactalbumin, have shown effectiveness in treating specific types of cancer. While BC has demonstrated anti-tumor properties in limited in vitro and animal studies, numerous BC components have shown the ability to induce apoptosis in cancer cells and limit tumor growth [ 56 ].…”

Utilization of Dairy By-Products as a Source of Functional and Health Compounds—The Role of Ovine Colostrum and Milk Whey on Chronic Myeloid Leukemia Cells

“…Besides lactoferrin, other substances may have anticancer activity. More recently, Alsayed [39] has summarized anticancer activity in the treatment of several bovine colostrum components, including lactoferrin, conjugated linoleic acid (CLA), and alpha-lactalbumin. Although their anticancer activity has been confirmed, other studies are required to evaluate the appropriate dosages of the drugs, their therapeutic effects, and their long-term safety.…”

A Comprehensive Review of Bovine Colostrum Components and Selected Aspects Regarding Their Impact on Neonatal Calf Physiology

“…Moreover, the importance of colostrum, mainly BC, for farm animals is gaining popularity as a food ingredient [39] and as a nutraceutical for humans [40,41]. It is also being explored for potential applications in anti-tumor therapeutics for specific cancers [42]. Due to its nutritional value and low availability, BC has a high market value compared to other by-products of the sector [43], and its demand is projected to increase [44].…”