Integrin-linked kinase is involved in lactoferrin-induced anchorage-independent cell growth and survival in PC12 cells.

Aims: Bovine lactoferrin (bLf) causes anchorage-independent cell growth in PC12 cells. The present study investigated the mechanisms involved in bLf-induced anchorage-independent cell growth and survival in PC12 cells.

Main Methods: The number of adherent cells and suspended cells was estimated separately by using a methyl thiazol tetrazolium (MTT) assay, and the sum of both optical density (O.

Bovine lactoferrin stimulates anchorage-independent cell growth via membrane-associated chondroitin sulfate and heparan sulfate proteoglycans in PC12 cells.

Bovine lactoferrin (bLf) is an iron-binding secretory protein present in breast milk, mucosal secretions, and the secondary granules of neutrophils. Although bLf has multiple functions, including antimicrobial and immunomodulatory activities, its effect on neuronal cells is not fully understood. We report that bLf prevents cell adhesion of PC12 cells and allows them to be cultivated in suspension.