Lactoperoxidase is the most abundant enzyme in milk and is found almost exclusively in the whey after cheese making. The lactoperoxidase can work synergistically with lactoferrin, Ig, growth factors and lysozyme. The lactoperoxidases have no antimicrobial activity themselves, but in the presence of the specific co-factors they constitute an important defence system in liquid solution. These co-factors are hydrogen peroxide H₂O₂ and an halide or pseudo halide depending on the specificity of the enzyme.
This defence mechanism plays a key role in protecting mucuous membranes against bacterial invasion.

Lactoperoxidase system



The lactoperoxidase System can produce, in appropriate conditions, molecules such as Hypothiocyanite (OSNC-), Hypoiodide (OI-) or a mixture of both. These molecules are powerful antimicrobial agents against bacteria, viruses, and yeasts.
A non-exhaustive list follows :

- food products as new decontamination system
- cosmetics for the treatment of acne
- oral/dental care products as a protective agent against plaque and gengivitis problems
- medical/clinical preparations for the treatment of viruses such as Herpes Simplex virus
- feed specialities for prevention and treatment of diarrhoea and mastitis
- regulation of H₂O₂  (creation of HO free radicals process)