International Board of Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) Practice Exam

What is the role of lactoferrin found in human milk?

1. To bind and transport calcium

2. To promote digestion

3. To transport iron and offer protection against infection

4. To inhibit lactose absorption

The correct answer is: To transport iron and offer protection against infection

Lactoferrin, a glycoprotein present in human milk, plays a crucial role in both nutrient transport and immune protection. Its primary function is to transport iron, which is essential for various metabolic functions in infants, while also exhibiting properties that help defend against infections. Lactoferrin binds to iron, making it unavailable to harmful bacteria and pathogens that may rely on this nutrient for growth and replication. This iron-binding capability is not only important for nutritional purposes but also enhances the antimicrobial effects of human milk, thus contributing to the overall health and development of the infant. In addition to its protective effects, lactoferrin can also stimulate the growth of beneficial gut bacteria, further promoting an infant's immune system and gut health. This dual role—transporting iron and providing a barrier against infection—highlights why lactoferrin is vital in human milk, particularly for newborns and infants who are still developing their own immune responses. The other options do not accurately represent the primary functions of lactoferrin. While some components of human milk may facilitate digestion or influence calcium transport, lactoferrin’s key roles specifically center around iron transport and infection protection, making option C the most accurate choice.