An Important Milk Enzyme: Lactoperoxidase

It has been acknowledged since ancient times that milk and dairy products have a vital role in nutrition and contribute considerably to human health. Because of its content, Because of its content, it has many important effects on the life that include immunoglobulins, enzymes, hormones, growth factors, antibacterial agents, fat acids, vitamins, and minerals. Approximately 70 indigenous enzymes have been reported in normal bovine milk, including lactoperoxidase. Lactoperoxidase LPO is a natural constituent of milk, saliva, and tears. It also exists in all mammary milk. LPO is an iron heme group basic glycoprotein, with a molecular weight of approximately 78 kDa. The LPO enzyme catalyzes the H2O2 +SCN- → OSCN- + H2O reaction. Hydrogen peroxide and hypothiocyanate are indispensable for antimicrobial activity. The biological significance of LPO is involved in the natural host defense system against pathogenic microorganisms.