Antiinfective properties

Zinc (200 to 220 mg p.o. t.i.d.) is used in zinc-deficiency states and as an adjunct in ulcers, acne, ear granulomata, rheumatoid arthritis, hypogeusia, anosmia, vitamin A therapy, and acrodermatitis enteropathica. In addition, zinc has antiinfective properties and hence is used twice a day as an ophthalmic solution (1 to 2 drops). Zinc sulfate ophthalmic solution exhibits astringent and weak antiseptic activity, which may result from precipitation of protein by the zinc ion and by clearing mucus from the outer surface of the eye. This drug has no decongestant action and produces mild vasodilation. 

Probiotics are live microorganisms recognized as good or friendly bacteria, which settle in the intestine medium and render healthful effects on the host. Thus, these live microorganisms can improve microbial balances in intestine and exert positive effects on the host. Various health benefits have been attributed to probiotics such as antimutagenic and anticarcinogenic properties, antiinfection properties, immune system stimulation, and serum cholesterol reduction. " Lactobacillus and bifidobacteria are the most commonly used probiotics and are extensively investigated for their beneficial importance. ... 

Additional discussions are available in the General References concerning the properties of several nitrofiirans. This includes further coverage of the chemotherapeutic and physical properties antimicrobial activity bacterial resistance absorption, distribution, and excretion clinical use and safety studies, of this interesting class of antiinfective compounds. 

Prednisone, an adrenocorticoid with antiinflammatory and inunnnosnppressant properties, is nsed in severe inflammation or immnnosuppression, and in acnte exacerbations of mnltiple sclerosis. In addition, prednisone has been used as an adjunct to antiinfective therapy in the treatment of moderate to severe Pneumocystis carinii pneumonia. 

The past decades witnessed a major decrease in the number of newly discovered compounds. In an almost 40-year period (1962-2000), no new class of antibiotic was introduced to the market (nalidixic acid in 1962, the oxazolidinone antibiotic linezolid in 2000) [44, 45]. The major reason for the decrease in the number of newly discovered compounds might be a decline in screening efforts [37]. Ironically, some of the leading pharmaceutical companies are currently cutting back their antiinfective programs, especially for natural products [46]. They rather focus their activities on the semisynthetic modification of existing antibiotics to produce second- and third-generation antibiotics with improved properties. 

Contrary to other whey proteins, a Fe " ion is present in lactoferrin molecule [3]. Similarly to immunoglobulins, it has the antimicrobial character [46]. Whey is appropriate for extraction of lactoferrin and cation-exchange chromatography is proposed for its purihcation. Heat treatment at pH 4.0 does not denature the protein therefore, this pH is suitable for its pasteurization. Recently, some beneficial aspects of lactoferrin on human s health have been regarded. Its exceptional properties such as antiinfective, anticancer, antioxidant and antimicrobial activities enhance its utility in pharmaceutical and food industries. Remarkably, lower pH values (2-3) enhance its antibacterial activity. The results of clinical studies about positive effects of lactoferrin on human and animals health have been published [49]. 

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