What is IDP?  

IDP® - is a bioactive whey protein complex extracted from pasture fed milk. It provides effective selective antimicrobial activity to support the body’s microbiome. This selective antimicrobial activity supports our microbiome by suppressing harmful pathogens and viruses, while being relatively ineffective against important probiotic and commensal species that the body needs to maintain good health. 

IDP® anti-inflammatory properties support tight gut junctions which are important for maintaining good digestive health and supporting our immune system. If tight junctions loosen this can lead to accelerated organ ageing and many deleterious downstream effects.  

IDP® combines lactoferrin, lactoperoxidase and immunoglobulins together with 50+ minor bioactive proteins - this novel whey protein fraction delivers a powerful synergy that supports the immune system by providing natural protection from free radicals, inflammation and infection.  

It is a safe and effective natural option for supporting health and wellness. The powerful synergy has far greater potency than its key isolates (lactoferrin, lactoperoxidase and immunoglobulins). These work together to support the bodies microbiome and provide effective immune support – based on powerful anti-microbial, anti-viral andanti-inflammatory properties. 

Lactoferrin, lactoperoxidase, immunoglobulins are some of the 50+ bioactive proteins that are found in IDP. Beyond their essential nutrient function in providing amino acids, the proteins present in IDP play an active role in supporting our immune system. Bioactive proteins have proven antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial and antiviral properties. Lactoferrin and lactoperoxidase in particular play an important role in our innate immune defence system. They boost the body’s natural protection against pathogens and viruses. Bioactive proteins are naturally present in biological fluids including saliva and tears. 

IDP® is made from pasture fed New Zealand milk which has significant benefits for the milk nutritional profile and animal welfare. Quantec test every batch of IDP® to confirm the presence of key target bioactive proteins and bioactive functionality IDP® food safety, quality and traceability standards meet dairy regulatory requirements for NZ and export market. 

The Benefits 

Anti-Microbial Activity   

IDP's offers potent antimicrobial and immune-enhancing benefits. It’s unique protein structure allows it to target and neutralize harmful bacteria, viruses, and fungi, acting as a natural shield for the body. The antimicrobial effects are primarily due to its ability to: 

• Inhibit bacterial growth by disrupting cell walls. 
• Reduce viral replication, limiting the spread of infections. 
• Combat fungal infections, promoting a balanced microbiome. 

Clinical Research on IDP 

Numerous studies have demonstrated IDP’s effectiveness in: 

• Reducing harmful pathogens like Staphylococcus aureus and E. coli. 
• Enhancing immune cell activity, particularly natural killer (NK) cells and macrophages. 
• Improving gut health, by fostering beneficial bacteria and limiting pathogenic overgrowth. 

By incorporating IDP into our immune formulation, we ensure targeted immune support with proven antimicrobial properties to help defend against infections and boost resilience in today’s world. 

IDP® has significantly greater efficacy than purified lactoferrin at inhibiting these common pathogens. IDP = 2 x Lactoferrin.

Pathogen and Viral Defence 

IDP® selective antimicrobial activity inhibits the growth of pathogens and prevents virus infection of cells. This activity helps prevent infection and supports the body’s natural defence systems.  

Trial outcome - IDP has potential to increase antibody response 

Four-fold increase in in Antibody responses is generally considered to be protective in the event of infection. This study has highlighted a potential beneficial effect of high dose IDP supplementation in improving antibody responses against the influenza vaccine and potential impact on inducing protective immunity if taken on a daily basis. 
 

1 – IC50 = is the measure of the potency of a substance in inhibiting a biological function. The lower the value the greater the potency or effective inhibition of these viral species.

Anti-inflammatory Activity  

Tests have been completed In-vitro and in-vivo to measure its anti-inflammatory activity. IDP® is a potent inhibitor of the inflammatory cytokine IL-6.IDP® was as effective as Aspirin at the same concentration (100µg/ml) in this activated neutrophil test. Similar results were achieved with TNF-alpha inhibition.’ 

Combined antioxidant/anti-inflammatory action inhibits the inflammatory pathway, which is initiated in a number of inflammatory conditions (e.g., joint pain, gut inflammation, obesity). The oral activity of IDP® has been tested in an independent double-blinded systemic in-vivo human study in the US (Machaon Diagnostics, Oakland, CA) 

• Double-blinded 
• One treatment group (50mg IDP daily for 28 days) (n=10) 
• Placebo group (n=10) 
• Measured hsCRP, ox-LDL, TNF-α and IL-6 

Digestive Health – Effect of IDP on TEER 
(Transepithelial Electrical Resistance) 

Immune Defense Protein (IDP) not only supports immune health but also plays a vital role in maintaining digestive health, particularly by strengthening the intestinal barrier. The intestinal lining acts as the body’s first line of defense against harmful pathogens, toxins, and allergens. A key measure of intestinal barrier integrity is Transepithelial Electrical Resistance (TEER), which reflects the permeability and tightness of the cell junctions in the gut lining. A higher TEER value indicates a stronger, less permeable gut barrier, which helps prevent harmful substances from entering the bloodstream. 

Studies on IDP show that it significantly enhances TEER, improving gut barrier function. By tightening cell junctions and reducing intestinal permeability, IDP helps protect against conditions like leaky gut syndrome and promotes better nutrient absorption. This strengthens overall digestive health and reduces inflammation, which is often triggered by a compromised gut barrier. In this way, IDP serves as a key component in maintaining digestive wellness while also bolstering the immune system. This protective action may well also benefit all the barriers in the body from the blood brain barrier to the skin to the mouth, throat, eyes, reproductive tract and more although more studies are needed.