Lactoferrin affects rhinovirus B-14 entry into H1-HeLa cells

Denani, Caio Bidueira; Real-Hohn, Antonio; de Carvalho, Carlos Alberto Marques; Gomes, Andre Marco de Oliveira; Gonçalves, Rafael Braga

Lactoferrin is part of the innate immune system, with antiviral activity against numerous DNA and RNA viruses. Rhinoviruses, the leading cause of the common cold, are associated with exacerbation of respiratory illnesses such as asthma. Here, we explored the effect of bovine lactoferrin (BLf) on RV-B14 infectivity. Using different assays, we show that the effect of BLf is strongest during adhesion of the virus to the cell and entry. Tracking the internalisation of BLf and virus revealed a degree of colocalisation, although their interaction was only confirmed in vitro using empty viral particles, indicating a possible additional influence of BLf on other infection steps. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s00705-021-04993-4.