by Dr. Anthony Kleinsmith
Immune Factors
To comprehend what the Immune Factors are in high quality first milking colostrum and what they do, it is important to recognize that some of these components have one or more effects on the overall regulation and functioning of the immune system (immuno-regulating substances), while others are very restricted in what they can do and their benefits are usually very localized in the body, ordinarily exerting their effects primarily in the gut (gut protective substances).
Immuno-Regulating Substances
Thymosin (Alpha and Beta Chains) – Two protein-based chains make up this hormone. The chains are separate in colostrum; however, they can either stay separated and work independently on the thymus gland, or they can work together to activate, develop and maintain the immune system.
Proline-Rich Peptide (PRP) – This small protein acts like a hormone as it works on the thymus and other immune system organs. It keeps these organs from over-reacting to an insult. It is also called Thymulin.
Cytokines – These are small proteins that create, signal, and assist specific kinds of white blood cells to the site of a threat in the body.
Lymphokines – These proteins are created by various types of white blood cells and are of varying sizes. These proteins tell similar cells to change themselves so that they can release substances which can destroy invading microorganisms
Gut protective substances.
Immunoglobulins (IgG, IgM, IgA) – These are complex proteins which are also called antibodies. These proteins are a significant portion of proteins found in colostrum. A mother cow’s immune system produces these antibodies throughout her life as she responds to multiple different microorganisms. These proteins are then transferred prior to parturition into the colostrum. These antibodies react against fungi, viruses and bacteria that attack the gastrointestinal tract in humans.
Transfer Factors – Some certain types of microorganisms reside in the deep tissues of a body for a long period of time; when a body is exposed to these specific microorganisms, then transfer factors are produced to respond. They are small proteins and their area of expertise is to work together with different white blood cells and other factors to help keep microorganisms from infecting the body.
Lactoferrin – This mineral-binding carrier protein attaches to iron that is available. Some aerobic bacterias need iron in order to reproduce. Lactoferrin is effective as it strives to impede the growth of microorganisms found in the gut. Some studies show Lactoferrin as an immuno-regulating substance that has anti-tumor, antiviral and antibacterial properties.
Transferrin – This protein also attaches to iron and can either act on its own or combine forces with Lactoferrin. When in action, it impedes the growth of aerobic bacteria, specifically in the gut area.
Lysozyme – This enzyme attaches itself to cell walls of pathogenic bacterias as well as degrading proteins. Once it attaches, it is very powerful because it leaves holes in the walls of the bacteria.
Lactoperoxidase. A mildly effective enzyme that can also attach to the wall of certain bacteria, degrade other selected proteins and interfere with the ability of the bacteria to replicate.
Xanthine Oxidase. Another mildly effective enzyme that can also attach to the wall of certain bacteria, degrade different proteins than those affected by lactoperoxidase and also interfere with the ability of the bacteria to replicate.
White Blood Cells (Leukocytes) – Colostrum contains three types of functional white blood cells: neutrophils, polymorphonuclear, and macrophages. Their functions are best put to use right when the antibodies attach to the microorganisms. Each of these white blood cells can phagocytize foreign bodies and microorganisms. They also apply a substance which is carried into the microorganisms to destroy them.
Oligosaccharides and Glycoconjugates – These complex carbohydrates adhere to the inner surface of the gastrointestinal tract to prevent microorganisms from attaching.
About the Author:
Dr. Anthony Kleinsmith is considered one of the world’s leading authorities on
colostrum products. He is sought-after for radio and television appearances; he travels worldwide in his continuing efforts to educate people about colostrum everywhere. His first book sold over 500,000 copies worldwide. You can read more about the benefits of
colostrum at www.ImmuneTree.com