Drug Discov Ther. 2026;20(3):254-263. (DOI: 10.5582/ddt.2026.01029)

Lactoferrin improves scopolamine-induced memory impairment in mice

Mizukami N, Shibuya M, Furukawa M, Aoki R, Murakami K, Toho M, Nagashima D, Izumo N

Population aging is increasing worldwide, accompanied by a rising prevalence of cognitive decline and dementia, imposing substantial healthcare and socioeconomic burdens. This study evaluated the effects of lactoferrin on scopolamine-induced memory impairment in 5-week-old ddY mice using the Barnes maze test and the novel object recognition assay to assess cognitive function. Additionally, gene expression levels in the hippocampus were analyzed using reverse transcription-quantitative PCR to explore the underlying mechanisms. Scopolamine impaired spatial and object recognition memory, whereas lactoferrin markedly improved these deficits, with effects comparable to those of donepezil. Scopolamine also increased inflammatory and oxidative stress markers (Tnf and Nos2) and the apoptosis-related factor (Casp3), all of which were attenuated by lactoferrin. These findings indicate that lactoferrin improved scopolamine-induced memory impairment, potentially by suppressing inflammation and oxidative stress, thereby inhibiting neuronal apoptosis. Therefore, lactoferrin may represent a promising functional food component for the prevention of cognitive decline.

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