β-lactoglobulin is a lipocalin protein, and can bind many hydrophobic molecules, suggesting a role in their transport. β-lactoglobulin has also been shown to be able to bind iron via siderophores and thus might have a role in combating pathogens. A homologue of β-lactoglobulin is lacking in human breast milk.

What is beta-lactoglobulin used for?

β-Lactoglobulin (LG) is suspected to enhance or modulate human immune responses. Moreover, LG is also hypothesized to increase human cell proliferation. However, these potential functions of LG have not been directly or thoroughly addressed.

What is beta-lactoglobulin found in?

β-Lactoglobulin is a globular protein that is present in the milk of many mammalian species including ruminants, such as cows and sheep, and some non-ruminants, such as pigs and horses (Kontopidis et al., 2004; Sawyer and Kontopidis, 2000). β-Lactoglobulin is the major whey protein in milk.