Abstract

Endometrial malignancies pose a significant health challenge globally, necessitating the exploration of novel therapeutic strategies. Lactoferrin, a multifunctional glycoprotein abundant in various bodily fluids, has garnered attention for its potential anticancer properties. In this study, we investigate the efficacy of ox-like lactoferrin and lactoferrin peptides in inhibiting the growth of endometrial cancer cells through in vitro experiments. Utilizing established endometrial cancer cell lines, we assessed the cytotoxic effects of ox-like lactoferrin and lactoferrin peptides using MTT assays and cell viability assays. Our results reveal a dose-dependent inhibition of endometrial cancer cell proliferation upon treatment with ox-like lactoferrin and lactoferrin peptides. Furthermore, mechanistic investigations elucidate potential pathways underlying their anticancer effects, including induction of apoptosis and cell cycle arrest. Additionally, we evaluate the impact of ox-like lactoferrin and lactoferrin peptides on cellular migration and invasion, crucial processes implicated in cancer metastasis. Our findings demonstrate a significant reduction in migratory and invasive capabilities of endometrial cancer cells following treatment with these lactoferrin derivatives. Overall, our study provides compelling evidence for the anticancer potential of ox-like lactoferrin and lactoferrin peptides against endometrial malignancies, highlighting their promise as novel therapeutic agents. Further research exploring their efficacy in preclinical and clinical settings is warranted to validate their translational potential in combating endometrial cancer.