薬理と治療

Abstract

Objectives Immunoglobulin A（IgA）plays a major role in a maintenance of well-balanced and diverse gut microbiota. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of lactoferrin （LF）supplementation for 4 weeks on IgA secretion, enteric environment, sleep quality and mood states in healthy adults. Methods Sixty healthy participants aged 20-63 were enrolled in this randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind study. Participants were randomly assigned to LLF group, （LF 270 mg╱day）or placebo group（n＝30, respectively）. Results The IgA secretion were greater in LLF group than those of placebo group（P＜0.05）. No significant differences were found in defecation frequency and fecal output between two groups. Some indices related to enteric environment such as fecal microbiota and putrefactive products were beneficially changed only in LLF group. Improving of sleep quality and reducing fatigue feeling is also confirmed in LLF group. Salivary secretory IgA secretion was positively correlated with defecation frequency and output, negatively correlated with fecal phenol in LLF group. In addition, no clinically relevant adverse events were observed during the test period.Conclusion These findings suggest that LF supplementation could increase IgA secretion and improve the enteric environment, sleep quality and daily mood.