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Secretory immunoglobulin A (IgA) is the most abundant antibody at mucosal surfaces in the respiratory and GI tract and plays a crucial role in immunity. It is considered “antiviral” and “antibacterial” because it binds and neutralizes viruses and bacteria, preventing them from reaching the barrier surface. Secretory IgA also intercepts allergens and toxins. In research studies, secretory IgA has been found to inhibit influenza and rotaviruses, and neutralize toxins from bacteria like C. difficile and E. Coli. Additionally, secretory IgA plays an important role in maintaining homeostasis of the helpful gut bacteria (microbiome).

Immunoglobulins like IgG are antibodies that are present in the bloodstream, but also play an important role along the mucosal surfaces. They can recognize and bind specific, harmful particles like viruses and bacteria to block them from crossing the barrier. They play an integral role in the body’s first-line immune response.

Lactoferrin acts as a non-specific, first line defense against disease-causing particles through several mechanisms. It can bind directly to particles to destroy them, can intercept them, may recruit other immune cells when a threat is perceived, and is also able to induce an anti-inflammatory response. In research, lactoferrin has been shown to have a strong anti-viral effect against the influenza virus. It also helps maintain a tight seal between the cells of the mucosal barrier.

Milk oligosaccharides are short chains of sugar that pass undigested through the GI tract. They are the most complete form of “prebiotics” and reach the large intestine where they serve strictly as a food source for bacteria and feed the whole body microbiome. Unlike other prebiotics, milk oligosaccharides have been shown to preferentially feed the bifido- species, increasing counts of strictly the helpful populations of the bacteria in the microbiome and reducing unhealthy ones. Milk oligosaccharides also replenish the protective layer of mucous to maintain homeostasis and protection at the mucosal barriers.

Sialic acid (SA) is a small sugar found on surface molecules throughout the body. It plays a key role in cellular interactions, allowing cells to recognize one another and transmit vital information. It also plays an important role at the mucosal barrier, binding to harmful particles and preventing them from crossing inside. SA is most abundant in the brain, where it provides structure, modulates neural development, and is involved in learning and memory formation. Deficits in SA have been linked to aging and several brain diseases.

Proline-rich polypeptides (PRPs) are small proteins in colostrum with antibacterial, antiviral, and immune-regulating functions. They promote the healthy growth of immune cells, enhance beneficial bacteria in the gut, and strengthen the mucosal barrier. PRPs have also been shown to play an important role in improving cognition. They can regulate essential brain processes and reduce cellular damage and are currently being studied as a treatment for diseases like Alzheimer’s.

Growth factors are proteins that promote cellular regeneration and tissue repair. Colostrum is a potent source of growth factors and has been shown to have powerful efficacy in healing wounds, building muscle, and maintaining the skin's elasticity. Colostrum is also the only natural source of the two major growth factors transforming growth factors alpha and beta (TGF-a, TGF-b) and insulin-like growth factors 1 and 2 (IGF-1, IGF-2). Colostral IGF-1 increases lean muscle tissue and when used during exercise, switches cellular fuel from sugar to fat, increasing the body’s fat burning capacity.