How does the protein lactoferrin in breast milk protect infants against harmful bacteria?

Protein lactoferrin is present in human body and it is found in certain body fluids such as saliva, breast milk and urine. The main function of protein lactoferrin is to bind with and transport iron in the body. When an infant absorb iron in breast milk, protein lactoferrin attaches to any of the extra iron that the infant does not absorb and stops it from allowing harmful pathogens such as bacteria to grow in the baby's gastrointestinal tract. Thus, protecting babies from illness and infections.