Abstract: Methods of inducing a regulatory T cell (Treg) phenotype and skewing naïve T cells toward a pro-regulatory phenotype are disclosed.

Abstract: Provided herein are improved compositions comprising plant-derived recombinant human lactoferrin (rhLF) and treatment methods for modulating an immune response to improve the balance between anti-inflammatory cytokine producing cells and pro-inflammatory cells, and skew naïve T cells toward a pro-regulatory phenotype.

Abstract: Provided herein are improved compositions comprising lactoferrin and methods for modulating T cell subtypes and their activities in a subject, to improve the balance between anti-inflammatory (Th2) cytokine producing cells and pro-inflammatory (Th1) or Th17 cells, and skew naïve T cells toward a pro-regulatory phenotype, for the treatment and/or amelioration of neurodegen erative or autoimmune diseases and disorders (e.g., inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), Alzheimers disease, cognitive decline in the elderly resulting from chronic inflammation, and/or rheumatoid arthritis (RA)).