The Role of Bioactive Peptides in Diabetes and Obesity

Canine-derived Weissella confusa ZJUIDS-D034 and Enterococcus faecalis ZJUIDS-D016 combat aging by regulating gut microbiota

Old age raises the susceptibility of age-related disease in domestic dogs. Discovering effective anti-aging interventions is key for mitigating age-related disease and conserving "healthspan" in pet dogs. In this study, 2 bacterial strains were isolated from canine feces. After screening and identifying the strains, Weissella confusa ZJUIDS-D034 and Enterococcus faecalis ZJUIDS-D016 were chosen to intervene during d-galactose-induced senescence in mice. We found that administering Weissella confusa ZJUIDS-D034 and Enterococcus faecalis ZJUIDS-D016 improved the aging phenotype of mice, including an increase in antioxidant activity, a decrease in pro-inflammatory cytokines, and the restoration of intestinal and liver tissue damage. In addition, Weissella confusa ZJUIDS-D034 and Enterococcus faecalis ZJUIDS-D016 lead to changes in the structure of intestinal microbiota in aging mice. Specifically, there was a decrease in the abundance of the Cyanobacteria and an increase in the abundance of Akkermansia and Lactobacillus. More importantly, there was a significant increase in acetic acid, a short-chain fatty acid, due to intervention with the 2 strains. This increase might be attributed to higher Akkermansia. We show that the modulation of gut microbiota and metabolism in aging mice may be a promising strategy through which Weissella confusa ZJUIDS-D034 and Enterococcus faecalis ZJUIDS-D016 might exert their anti-aging effects.

Anti-obesity peptides from food: Production, evaluation, sources, and commercialization

The global obesity epidemic has heightened interest in natural solutions, with anti-obesity peptides emerging as promising candidates. Derived from food sources such as plants, algae, marine organisms, and products like milk and eggs, these peptides combat obesity through various mechanisms but face challenges in production and scalability. The aim of this review is to explore their sources, mechanisms, measurement, and synthesis methods, including innovative approaches such as de novo synthesis, proteomics, and bioinformatics. Its unique contribution lies in critically analyzing the current state of research while highlighting novel synthesis techniques and their practical relevance in addressing commercialization challenges, offering valuable insights for advancing anti-obesity peptide development. Diverse methods for assessing the anti-obesity properties of these peptides are discussed, encompassing both in vitro and in vivo experimental approaches, as well as emerging alternatives. The review also explores the integration of cutting-edge technologies in peptide synthesis with the potential to revolutionize scalability and cost-effectiveness. Key findings assert that despite the great potential of peptides from various food sources to fight against obesity and advances in their identification and analysis, challenges like scalability, regulatory hurdles, bioavailability issues, high production costs, and consumer appeal persist. Future research should explore the use of bioinformatics tools and advanced peptide screening technologies to identify and design peptides with enhanced efficacy and bioavailability, efficient and cost-effective extraction and purification methods, sustainable practices such as utilizing byproducts from the food industry, and the efficacy of products containing isolated anti-obesity peptides versus whole materials in clinical settings.

Evaluation of antiobesogenic properties of fermented foods: In silico insights

Obesity prevalence has steadily increased over the past decades. Standard approaches, such as increased energy expenditure, lifestyle changes, a balanced diet, and the use of specific drugs, are the conventional strategies for preventing or treating the disease and its associated complications. Fermented foods and their subsequent bioactive constituents are now believed to be a novel strategy that can complement already existing approaches for managing and preventing this disease. Recent developments in systems biology and bioinformatics have made it possible to model and simulate compounds and disease interactions. The adoption of such in silico models has contributed to the discovery of novel fermented product targets and helped in testing hypotheses regarding the mechanistic impact and underlying functions of fermented food components. From the studies explored, key findings suggest that fermented foods affect adipogenesis, lipid metabolism, appetite regulation, gut microbiota composition, insulin resistance, and inflammation related to obesity, which could lead to new ways to treat these conditions. These outcomes were linked to probiotics, prebiotics, metabolites, and complex bioactive substances produced during fermentation. Overall, fermented foods and their bioactive compounds show promise as innovative tools for obesity management by influencing metabolic pathways and overall gut health.

Multiple roles of food-derived bioactive peptides in the management of T2DM and commercial solutions: A review

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), a disease that threatens public health worldwide and can cause a series of irreversible complications, has been a major concern. Although the treatment based on hypoglycemic drugs is effective, its side effects should not be ignored, which has led to an urgent need for developing new hypoglycemic drugs. Bioactive peptides with antidiabetic effects obtained from food proteins have become a research hotspot as they are safer and with higher specificity than traditional hypoglycemic drugs. Here, we reviewed antidiabetic peptides that have the ability to inhibit key enzymes (α-glucosidase, α-amylase, and DPP-IV) in T2DM, the hypoglycemic mechanisms and structure-activity relationships were summarized, some antidiabetic peptides that improve insulin resistance and reverse gut microbiota and their metabolites were overviewed, the bitterness of antidiabetic peptides was predicted in silico, proposed solutions to the current challenges encountered in the development of antidiabetic peptide drugs, and provided an outlook on the future focus of commercial production. It provides a reference for the application of food-derived antidiabetic peptides.

Proteins and Peptides from Food Sources with Effect on Satiety and Their Role as Anti-Obesity Agents: A Narrative Review

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVE

Obesity, clinically defined as a body mass index (BMI) of 30 kg/m2 or higher, is a medical condition characterized by the excessive accumulation of body fat, which can lead to adverse health consequences. As a global public health issue with an escalating prevalence, controlling appetite and satiety is essential for regulating energy balance and managing body weight. Dietary proteins and peptides have gained interest in their potential to prevent and treat obesity by modulating satiety signals. This narrative review analyzes scientific evidence highlighting the role of dietary proteins and peptides in regulating satiety signals and investigates their therapeutic potential in preventing and treating obesity.

METHODS

A comprehensive literature search was conducted in multiple electronic databases, including PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science. The search focused on articles examining the impact of dietary proteins and peptides on satiety and obesity, encompassing both preclinical and clinical trials.

RESULTS

Several studies have demonstrated a correlation between the intake of specific proteins or peptides from plant and animal sources and satiety regulation. These investigations identified mechanisms where amino acids and peptides interact with enteroendocrine cell receptors, activating intracellular signaling cascades that promote the release of anorexigenic gut hormones such as cholecystokinin (CCK), glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1), and peptide YY (PYY). Both in vitro and in vivo assays have shown that these interactions contribute to appetite regulation and the sensation of satiety.

CONCLUSIONS

Using proteins and peptides in the diet may be an effective strategy for regulating appetite and controlling body weight. However, more research-including clinical trials-is needed to understand the underlying mechanisms better and optimize the application of these bioactive compounds in preventing and treating obesity.

Antioxidative, Glucose Management, and Muscle Protein Synthesis Properties of Fish Protein Hydrolysates and Peptides

The marine environment is an excellent source for many physiologically active compounds due to its extensive biodiversity. Among these, fish proteins stand out for their unique qualities, making them valuable in a variety of applications due to their diverse compositional and functional properties. Utilizing fish and fish coproducts for the production of protein hydrolysates and bioactive peptides not only enhances their economic value but also reduces their potential environmental harm, if left unutilized. Fish protein hydrolysates (FPHs), known for their excellent nutritional value, favorable amino acid profiles, and beneficial biological activities, have generated significant interest for their potential health benefits. These hydrolysates contain bioactive peptides which are peptide sequences known for their beneficial physiological effects. These biologically active peptides play a role in metabolic regulation/modulation and are increasingly seen as promising ingredients in functional foods, nutraceuticals and pharmaceuticals, with potential to improve human health and prevent disease. This review aims to summarize the current in vitro, cell model (in situ) and in vivo research on the antioxidant, glycaemic management and muscle health enhancement properties of FPHs and their peptides.

Advances in the application and mechanism of bioactive peptides in the treatment of inflammation

Inflammation is a normal immune response in organisms, but it often triggers chronic diseases such as colitis and arthritis. Currently, the most widely used anti-inflammatory drugs are non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, albeit they are accompanied by various adverse effects such as hypertension and renal dysfunction. Bioactive peptides (BAPs) provide therapeutic benefits for inflammation and mitigate side effects. Herein, this review focuses on the therapeutic effects of various BAPs on inflammation in different body parts. Emphasis is placed on the immunomodulatory mechanisms of BAPs in treating inflammation, such as regulating the release of inflammatory mediators, modulating MAPK and NF-κB signaling pathways, and reducing oxidative stress reactions for immunomodulation. This review aims to provide a reference for the function, application, and anti-inflammation mechanisms of BAPs.

Gastrointestinal digestion of food proteins: Anticancer, antihypertensive, anti-obesity, and immunomodulatory mechanisms of the derived peptides

Food proteins and their peptides play a significant role in the important biological processes and physiological functions of the body. The peptides show diverse biological benefits ranging from anticancer to antihypertensive, anti-obesity, and immunomodulatory, among others. In this review, an overview of food protein digestion in the gastrointestinal tract and the mechanisms involved was presented. As some proteins remain resistant and undigested, the multifarious factors (e.g. protein type and structure, microbial composition, pH levels and redox potential, host factors, etc.) affecting their colonic fermentation, the derived peptides, and amino acids that evade intestinal digestion are thus considered. The section that follows focuses on the mechanisms of the peptides with anticancer, antihypertensive, anti-obesity, and immunomodulatory effects. As further considerations were made, it is concluded that clinical studies targeting a clear understanding of the gastrointestinal stability, bioavailability, and safety of food-based peptides are still warranted.

Insights into the phytochemical profiling, antidiabetic and antioxidant potentials of Lepionurus sylvestris Blume extract in fructose/streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats

In this study, the antidiabetic activities of Lepionurus sylvestris Blume extract (LSB) in rats was investigated. The in vitro antidiabetic properties of LSB was evaluated using α-amylase, α-glucosidase and DPP-IV inhibitory assays, while the antioxidant assay was analysed using DPPH, ABTS and FRAP assays. Type 2 diabetes was with high-fructose/streptozotocin, and the diabetic animals were treated with LSB for 5 weeks. At the end of the experiment, the effects of LSB were evaluated via insulin level, lipid profile and hepatorenal function biomarkers. The level of oxido-inflammatory parameters, histopathology and insulin immunohistochemical staining in the pancreas was evaluated. Diabetic rats manifested significant increases in the blood glucose level, food/water intake, lipid profiles, hepatorenal function biomarkers, as well as a marked decreases in the body weight and serum insulin levels. Histopathological and insulin immunohistochemical examination also revealed decreased pancreatic beta cells and insulin positive cells, respectively. These alterations were associated with significant increases in malondialdehyde, TNF-α and IL-1β, in addition to significant declines in GSH, SOD and CAT activities. LSB significantly reduced blood glucose level, glucose intolerance, serum lipids, restored altered hepatorenal and pancreatic functions in the treated diabetic rats. Further, LSB showed antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities by reducing malondialdehyde, TNF-α, IL-1β, and increasing antioxidant enzymes activities in the pancreatic tissues. A total of 77 secondary metabolites were tentatively identified in the UPLC-Q-TOF-MS analysis of LSB. Overall, these findings provides insight into the potentials of LSB as an antidiabetic agent which may be associated to the plethora bioactive compounds in the plant.

Anti-obesity and anti-diabetic bioactive peptides: A comprehensive review of their sources, properties, and techno-functional challenges

The scourge of obesity arising from obesogens and poor dieting still ravages our planet as half of the global population may be overweight and obese by 2035. This metabolic disorder is intertwined with type 2 diabetes (T2D), both of which warrant alternative therapeutic options other than clinically approved drugs like orlistat with their tendency of abuse and side effects. In this review, we comprehensively describe the global obesity problem and its connection to T2D. Obesity, overconsumption of fats, the mechanism of fat digestion, obesogenic gut microbiota, inhibition of fat digestion, and natural anti-obesity compounds are discussed. Similar discussions are made for diabetes with regard to glucose regulation, the diabetic gut microbiota, and insulinotropic compounds. The sources and production of anti-obesity bioactive peptides (AOBPs) and anti-diabetic bioactive peptides (ADBPs) are also described while explaining their structure-function relationships, gastrointestinal behaviors, and action mechanisms. Finally, the techno-functional applications of AOBPs and ADBPs are highlighted.

Protein hydrolysates of Moringa oleifera seed: Antioxidant and antihyperglycaemic potential as ingredient for the management of type-2 diabetes

New plant proteins with high nutritional quality and biological properties are actively searched worldwide. Moringa oleifera seed protein isolate was prepared from defatted flour and hydrolyzed using four proteases namely trypsin, pepsin, Alcalase, and thermolysin. Then, antioxidant activity and cellular glucose uptake properties of the hydrolysates were assessed. A high degree of hydrolysis was obtained for hydrolysate prepared using trypsin (60.07%), followed by pepsin (57.14%), Alcalase (50.68%), and thermolysin (45.45%). Thermolysin hydrolysate was the most antioxidant efficient (IC50 0.15 and 0.74 mg/mL for 2,2'-azino-bis(acide 3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonique) diammonium salt (ABTS) and 2,2-Diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) scavenging activity, respectively). Trypsin hydrolysate stimulated high glucose uptake by yeast cells (12.34-35.28%). In the absence of insulin, Alcalase hydrolysate was the most efficient for glucose uptake by the muscle, with the rate ranging from 22.03% to 29.93% after 30 min, then from 29.55% to 34.6% after 60 min. The four hydrolysates improved glucose uptake by the muscle in the presence of insulin with the rate ranging from 46.88% to 58.03% after 30 min, and from 50% to 58.18% after 60 min. Therefore, Moringa oleifera seed proteins could be used to prepare peptides as components of functional foods for the management of type-2 diabetes.

Adipose tissue inflammation linked to obesity: A review of current understanding, therapies and relevance of phyto-therapeutics

Obesity is a current global challenge affecting all ages and is characterized by the up-regulated secretion of bioactive factors/pathways which result in adipose tissue inflammation (ATI). Current obesity therapies are mainly focused on lifestyle (diet/nutrition) changes. This is because many chemosynthetic anti-obesogenic medications cause adverse effects like diarrhoea, dyspepsia, and faecal incontinence, among others. As such, it is necessary to appraise the efficacies and mechanisms of action of safer, natural alternatives like plant-sourced compounds, extracts [extractable phenol (EP) and macromolecular antioxidant (MA) extracts], and anti-inflammatory peptides, among others, with a view to providing a unique approach to obesity care. These natural alternatives may constitute potent therapies for ATI linked to obesity. The potential of MA compounds (analysed for the first time in this review) and extracts in ATI and obesity management is elucidated upon, while also highlighting research gaps and future prospects. Furthermore, immune cells, signalling pathways, genes, and adipocyte cytokines play key roles in ATI responses and are targeted in certain therapies. As a result, this review gives an in-depth appraisal of ATI linked to obesity, its causes, mechanisms, and effects of past, present, and future therapies for reversal and alleviation of ATI. Achieving a significant decrease in morbidity and mortality rates attributed to ATI linked to obesity and related comorbidities is possible as research improves our understanding over time.

Iron accumulation induced by hepcidin1 knockout accelerates the progression of aging osteoporosis

OBJECTIVE

Iron accumulation is associated with osteoporosis. This study aims to explore the effect of chronic iron accumulation induced by hepcidin1 deficiency on aging osteoporosis.

METHODS

Iron accumulation in hepcidin1 knockout aging mice was assessed by atomic absorption spectroscopy and Perl's staining. Bone microarchitecture was observed using Micro-CT. Hepcidin, ferritin, oxidative stress, and markers of bone turnover in serum were detected by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Bone formation and resorption markers were measured by real-time quantitative PCR. Cell aging was induced by D-galactose treatment. CCK-8, flow cytometry, EdU assays, and Alizarin red staining were performed to reveal the role of hepcidin1 knockout in cell model. Iron Colorimetric Assay Kit and western blot were applied to detect iron and ferritin levels in cells, respectively.

RESULTS

In hepcidin1-knockout mice, the ferritin and iron contents in liver and tibia were significantly increased. Iron accumulation induced by hepcidin1 knockout caused a phenotype of low bone mass and deteriorated bone microarchitecture. Osteogenic marker was decreased and osteoclast marker was increased in mice, accompanied by increased oxidative stress level. The mRNA expression levels of osteoclast differentiation markers (RANKL, Mmp9, OPG, Trap, and CTSK) were up-regulated, while bone formation markers (OCN, ALP, Runx2, SP7, and Col-1) were down-regulated in model group, compared to wild type mice. In vitro, hepcidin1 knockdown inhibited proliferation and osteogenic differentiation, while promoted apoptosis, with increased levels of iron and ferritin.

CONCLUSION

Iron accumulation induced by hepcidin1 deficiency aggravates the progression of aging osteoporosis via inhibiting osteogenesis and promoting osteoclast genesis.

Molecular insights into the anti-inflammatory activity of fermented pineapple juice using multimodal computational studies

Pineapple has been recognized for its potential to enhance health and well-being. This study aimed to gain molecular insights into the anti-inflammatory properties of fermented pineapple juice using multimodal computational studies. In this study, pineapple juice was fermented using Lactobacillus paracasei, and the solution underwent liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry analysis. Network pharmacology was applied to investigate compound interactions and targets. In silico methods assessed compound bioactivities. Protein-protein interactions, network topology, and enrichment analysis identified key compounds. Molecular docking explored compound-receptor interactions in inflammation regulation. Molecular dynamics simulations were conducted to confirm the stability of interactions between the identified crucial compounds and their respective receptors. The study revealed several compounds including short-chain fatty acids, peptides, dihydroxyeicosatrienoic acids, and glycerides that exhibited promising anti-inflammatory properties. Leucyl-leucyl-norleucine and Leu-Leu-Tyr exhibited robust and stable interactions with mitogen-activated protein kinase 14 and IκB kinase β, respectively, indicating their potential as promising therapeutic agents for inflammation modulation. This proposition is grounded in the pivotal involvement of these two proteins in inflammatory signaling pathways. These findings provide valuable insights into the anti-inflammatory potential of these compounds, serving as a foundation for further experimental validation and exploration. Future studies can build upon these results to advance the development of these compounds as effective anti-inflammatory agents.

Evaluating and comparing tolerance, nutritional quality and bio-functional activity of bovine-plasma, corn and whey proteins, outcomes of a randomized double blind controlled trial

Important considerations in the choice of future sustainable protein sources for human application are tolerance, nutritional quality, and potential health benefits. We evaluated, in a double-blind cross-over intervention trial, tolerance, nutritional quality, and potential health effects of two sustainable protein sources. Thirty-six apparently healthy older adults (age 62.3 ± 7.2yrs, BMI 25 ± 3 kg/m2) received 40 g/day bovine-plasma protein (BP), corn protein (CP) or, as a benchmark, whey protein (WP) for one week with a washout period of one week in-between. In 12 participants, we also determined postprandial amino acid (PAA) uptake kinetics upon consumption of 20 g BP, CP, or WP. Changes in self-reported gastrointestinal complaints and intestinal permeability assessed using a multi-sugar acetylsalicylic acid test did not differ between the interventions. Clear differences in PAA responses were observed after consumption of the different proteins, but clear essential amino acid responses were observed for all proteins. BP consumption resulted in a small but significant increase in blood pressure outcomes, and CP consumption resulted in a small but significant decrease in insulin levels when compared to the other interventions. In conclusion, alternative protein concentrates and isolates studied here can be consumed in relative high quantities without experiencing unwanted GI complaints or gut barrier dysfunction and they can be a good source of essential amino acids. The rise in blood pressure observed during the BP intervention, potentially linked to the elevated salt content of the BP, constitutes a potential health issue. Future studies with longer intervention periods might however be recommended.

Bioactive Ingredients in Traditional Fermented Food Condiments: Emerging Products for Prevention and Treatment of Obesity and Type 2 Diabetes

Obesity and type 2 diabetes (T2D) are severe metabolic diseases due to inappropriate lifestyle and genetic factors and their prevention/treatment cause serious problems. Therefore, searching for effective and safe approaches to control obesity and T2D is an essential challenge. This study presents the knowledge regarding the possible use of traditional fermented condiments (TFC), a known major source of bioactive compounds (BACs), as an adjuvant treatment for obesity and T2D. Data on antiobesity, antidiabetic, and different mechanisms of BACs action of TFC were collected using a methodical search in PubMed, Scopus databases, Web of Science, SciELO, and the Cochrane Library. We discuss the mechanisms by which BCs prevent or treat obesity and T2D. The effects of TFC on obesity and T2D have been found both in animal, human, and clinical studies. The findings demonstrated that BACs in TFC confer potential promising antiobesity and antidiabetic effects. Because of the potential therapeutic significance of bioactive ingredients, the consumption of TFC could be recommended as a functional condiment. Nevertheless, further investigation is required in more clinical studies of TFC to support the formulation of functional fermented condiments and nutraceutical and pharmaceutical applications.

Shifting archetype to nature's hidden gems: from sources, purification to uncover the nutritional potential of bioactive peptides

Contemporary scientific findings revealed that our daily food stuffs are enriched by encrypted bioactive peptides (BPs), evolved by peptide linkage of amino acids or encrypted from the native protein structures. Remarkable to these BPs lies in their potential health benefiting biological activities to serve as nutraceuticals or a lead addition to the development of functional foods. The biological activities of BPs vary depending on the sequence as well as amino acid composition. Existing database records approximately 3000 peptide sequences which possess potential biological activities such as antioxidants, antihypertensive, antithrombotic, anti-adipogenics, anti-microbials, anti-inflammatory, and anti-cancerous. The growing evidences suggest that BPs have very low toxicity, higher accuracy, less tissue accretion, and are easily degraded in the disposed environment. BPs are nowadays evolved as biologically active molecules with potential scope to reduce microbial contamination as well as ward off oxidation of foods, amend diverse range of human diseases to enhance the overall quality of human life. Against the clinical and health perspectives of BPs, this review aimed to elaborate current evolution of nutritional potential of BPs, studies pertaining to overcome limitations with respect to special focus on emerging extraction, protection and delivery tools of BPs. In addition, the nano-delivery mechanism of BP and its clinical significance is detailed. The aim of current review is to augment the research in the field of BPs production, identification, characterisation and to speed up the investigation of the incredible potentials of BPs as potential nutritional and functional food ingredient.

Legume-Derived Bioactive Peptides in Type 2 Diabetes: Opportunities and Challenges

Diabetes mellitus is a complex disorder characterized by insufficient insulin production or insulin resistance, which results in a lifelong dependence on glucose-lowering drugs for almost all patients. During the fight with diabetes, researchers are always thinking about what characteristics the ideal hypoglycemic drugs should have. From the point of view of the drugs, they should maintain effective control of blood sugar, have a very low risk of hypoglycemia, not increase or decrease body weight, improve β-cell function, and delay disease progression. Recently, the advent of oral peptide drugs, such as semaglutide, brings exciting hope to patients with chronic diabetes. Legumes, as an excellent source of protein, peptides, and phytochemicals, have played significant roles in human health throughout human history. Some legume-derived peptides with encouraging anti-diabetic potential have been gradually reported over the last two decades. Their hypoglycemic mechanisms have also been clarified at some classic diabetes treatment targets, such as the insulin receptor signaling pathway or other related pathways involved in the progress of diabetes, and key enzymes including α-amylase, α-glucosidase, and dipeptidyl peptidase-IV (DPP-4). This review summarizes the anti-diabetic activities and mechanisms of peptides from legumes and discusses the prospects of these peptide-based drugs in type 2 diabetes (T2D) management.

Egg Intake Is Associated with Lower Risks of Impaired Fasting Glucose and High Blood Pressure in Framingham Offspring Study Adults

The association between egg consumption and cardiometabolic risk factors such as high blood pressure (HBP) and impaired fasting glucose (IFG) or type 2 diabetes (T2D) is still under debate. This study examines the association between egg consumption and these outcomes among 2349 30-64 year-old adults in the prospective Framingham Offspring Study. Diet was assessed using three-day dietary records. Potential confounders retained in the final models included age, sex, body mass index, and other dietary factors. The analysis of covariance and Cox proportional hazard's models were used to assess the relevant continuous (i.e., FG, SBP, DBP) and categorical (i.e., T2D, HBP) outcomes. Consuming ≥5 eggs per week was associated with lower mean FG (p = 0.0004) and SBP (p = 0.0284) after four years of follow-up. Higher egg intakes led to lower risks of developing IFG or T2D (HR: 0.72; 95% CI: 0.51-1.03) and high blood pressure (HBP) (HR: 0.68; 0.50-0.93). The beneficial effects of egg consumption were stronger in combination with other healthy dietary patterns. This study found that regular egg consumption as part of a healthy diet had long-term beneficial effects on blood pressure and glucose metabolism and lowered the long-term risks of high blood pressure and diabetes.

Recent advances of bioactive proteins/polypeptides in the treatment of breast cancer

Proteins do not only serve as nutrients to fulfill the demand for food, but also are used as a source of bioactive proteins/polypeptides for regulating physical functions and promoting physical health. Female breast cancer has the highest incidence in the world and is a serious threat to women's health. Bioactive proteins/polypeptides exert strong anti-tumor effects and exhibit inhibition of multiple breast cancer cells. This review discussed the suppressing effects of bioactive proteins/polypeptides on breast cancer in vitro and in vivo, and their mechanisms of migration and invasion inhibition, apoptosis induction, and cell cycle arrest. This may contribute to providing a basis for the development of bioactive proteins/polypeptides for the treatment of breast cancer.

Graphical abstract

Microbiology, flavor formation, and bioactivity of fermented soybean curd (furu): A review

Soybeans are an important plant-based food but its beany flavor and anti-nutritional factors limit its consumption. Fermentation is an effective way to improve its flavor and nutrition. Furu is a popular fermented soybean curd and mainly manufactured in Asia, which has been consumed for thousands of years as an appetizer because of its attractive flavors. This review first classifies furu products on the basis of various factors; then, the microorganisms involved in its fermentation and their various functions are discussed. The mechanisms for the formation of aroma and taste compounds during fermentation are also discussed; and the microbial metabolites and their bioactivities are analyzed. Finally, future prospects and challenges are introduced and further research is proposed. This information is needed to protect the regional characteristics of furu and to regulate its consistent quality. The current information suggests that more in vivo experiments and further clinical trials are needed to confirm its safety and the microbial community needs to be optimized and standardized for each type of furu to improve the production process.

Tofu Whey Wastewater as a Beneficial Supplement to Poultry Farming: Improving Production Performance and Protecting against Salmonella Infection

Tofu whey wastewater (TWW) is a by-product of the tofu production process, and contains high amounts of organic products and Lactobacillus ap. However, no studies have been reported on whether naturally fermented TWW can be used as a beneficial additive for poultry production. This study analyzed the main nutritional components and microbial flora of naturally fermented TWW from rural tofu processing plants and their effect on chick production performance, role in modulating the biochemical and immune parameters, and protection against Salmonella enteritidis (S. enteritidis) infection. It was observed that the average pH of TWW was 4.08; therefore, the total viable count was 3.00 × 10⁹ CFU/mL and the abundance of Lactobacillus was 92.50%. Moreover, TWW supplementation increased the total weight gain and feed intake, reduced the feed/gain ratio, increased the length and relative weight of the gut, and reduced the colonization and excretion of S. enteritidis in chickens. Additionally, TWW decreased oxidative damage and pro-inflammatory cytokine secretion caused by S. enteritidis infection. In addition, TWW supplementation ensured the structure of the intestine remained relatively intact in S. enteritidis-infected chicken. Furthermore, TWW markedly promoted the intestinal barrier integrity and up-regulated the relative abundance of Lactobacillus, counteracting the changes in gut microbiota caused by S. enteritidis infection in chicken. In conclusion, our data demonstrated that TWW could be used as a beneficial addition to poultry production, providing a research basis for the further development of TWW as a health care application in in food-producing animal.

Canary Seed (Phalaris canariensis L.) Peptides Prevent Obesity and Glucose Intolerance in Mice Fed a Western Diet

Previous research showed that canary seed (Phalaris canariensis L.) peptides (CSP) possess robust in vitro antiobesity properties via inhibition of pancreatic lipase (PL). Nevertheless, no studies have yet explored their antiobesity properties in vivo. Consequently, we investigated the effects of CSP in C57BL/6J mice under a Western diet (WD). Mice were assigned into groups and fed a normal diet (ND) or a WD accompanied by an oral dose of CSP (250 or 500 mg/kg/day), orlistat (40 mg/kg/day), or distilled water. The results showed that consuming CSP can provide metabolic benefits, including preventing weight gain by up to 20%, increasing glucose tolerance, and reducing insulin, leptin, and LDL/VLDL levels in plasma. Conversely, total ghrelin was unaffected by CSP-500, but decreased by CSP-250, and amplified by orlistat. Surprisingly, CSP-250 was more effective in preventing weight gain and promoting satiety than CSP-500. Parallel to this, protein absorption in CSP-500 was decreased, supported by a rise in fecal crude protein (+3.5%). Similarly, fecal fat was increased by orlistat (38%) and was unaffected by CSP-250 (3.0%) and CSP (3.0%), comparatively to WD (2.5%). Despite this, both CSP treatments were equally effective in decreasing hepatic steatosis and avoiding hyperlipidemia. Furthermore, the enzymatic analysis showed that CSP-PL complexes dissociated faster (15 min) than orlistat-PL complexes (41 min). Lastly, CSP did not affect expression of hepatic lipid oxidation genes ACO and PPAR-α, but reduced the expression of the hydrolase gene LPL, and lipogenesis related genes FAS and ACC. Taken together, these results suggest that CSP antiobesity mechanism relies on lipid metabolism retardation to increase fat transit time and subsequently suppress hunger.

Proteomics Characterization of Food-Derived Bioactive Peptides with Anti-Allergic and Anti-Inflammatory Properties

Bioactive peptides are found in foods and dietary supplements and are responsible for health benefits with applications in human and animal medicine. The health benefits include antihypertensive, antimicrobial, antithrombotic, immunomodulatory, opioid, antioxidant, anti-allergic and anti-inflammatory functions. Bioactive peptides can be obtained by microbial action, mainly by the gastrointestinal microbiota from proteins present in food, originating from either vegetable or animal matter or by the action of different gastrointestinal proteases. Proteomics can play an important role in the identification of bioactive peptides. High-resolution mass spectrometry is the principal technique used to detect and identify different types of analytes present in complex mixtures, even when available at low concentrations. Moreover, proteomics may provide the characterization of epitopes to develop new food allergy vaccines and the use of immunomodulating peptides to induce oral tolerance toward offending food allergens or even to prevent allergic sensitization. In addition, food-derived bioactive peptides have been investigated for their anti-inflammatory properties to provide safer alternatives to nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). All these bioactive peptides can be a potential source of novel drugs and ingredients in food and pharmaceuticals. The following review is focused on food-derived bioactive peptides with antiallergic and anti-inflammatory properties and summarizes the new insights into the use of proteomics for their identification and quantification.

Effects of Whey Peptide Supplementation on Sarcopenic Obesity in High-Fat Diet-Fed Mice

The incidence of sarcopenic obesity gradually increased in parallel with the aged population. This research examined the effects of whey peptide (WP) supplementation with/without resistant exercise (RE) on sarcopenic obesity. Male 8-month-old C57BL/6J mice were fed a control diet (10 kcal% fat) or a high-fat diet (60 kcal% fat) for 8 weeks. High-fat diet-fed mice were randomly divided into four groups: obesity control group (OB), RE (RE only), WP (WP only), and WPE (RE and WP). WP supplementation (1500 mg/day/kg B.W.) gavage and RE (ladder climbing, five times weekly, 8−10 repetitions, 10−20% B.W. load) were conducted for an additional 8 weeks. Protein and mRNA levels of markers related to energy, protein, and lipid metabolism were analyzed in skeletal muscle and adipose tissue by one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA). WP supplementation regardless of RE significantly suppressed the increasing fat mass (p = 0.016) and decreasing lean mass (p = 0.014) and alleviated abnormal morphological changes in skeletal muscle and adipose tissue (p < 0.001). In adipose tissue, WP supplementation regardless of RE ameliorated dysregulated energy metabolism and contributed to the reduction in adipocyte differentiation (PPAR-γ (p = 0.017), C/EBPα (p = 0.034)). In skeletal muscle, WP supplementation regardless of RE alleviated energy metabolism dysregulation and resulted in down-regulated protein degradation (Atrogin-1 (p = 0.003), MuRF1 (p = 0.006)) and apoptosis (Bax) (p = 0.004). Taken together, the current study elucidated that WP supplementation regardless of RE has potential anti-obesity and anti-sarcopenic effects in sarcopenic obesity.

Controlling the Interaction between Starchy Polyelectrolyte Layers for Adjusting Protein Release from Nanocapsules in a Simulated Gastrointestinal Tract

Orally delivered bioactive proteins face great challenges in the harsh environment of the upper gastrointestinal tract (GIT) in the field of functional foods based on bioactive proteins. Therefore, it is necessary to design carriers and delivery systems that have the potential to overcome the problem of lower bioaccessibility for protein cargoes. In this work, we present a starchy oral colon-targeting delivery system, capable of improving the release profile of the protein cargoes. The starchy oral colon-targeting delivery system was fabricated using layer-by-layer assembly of starchy polyelectrolytes (carboxymethyl anionic starch and spermine cationic starch) onto the surface of protein nanoparticles via electrostatic interaction. The dynamic change in the interaction between the starchy polyelectrolytes affected the shell aggregation structure and determined the release kinetics of nanocapsules in the GIT. Specifically, the stronger interactions between the starchy layers and the thicker and more compact shell layer kept the nanocapsule intact in the simulated gastric and intestinal fluids, better-protecting the protein from degradation by digestive fluids, thus avoiding the burst release effect in the SGF and SIF. However, the nanocapsule could quickly swell with the decreasing molecular interactions between starchy polyelectrolytes, increasing protein release (63.61%) in the simulated colonic fluid. Therefore, release behaviors of protein cargoes could be appropriately controlled by adjusting the number of deposited layers of pH-sensitive starchy polyelectrolytes on the nanocapsule. This could improve the bioaccessibility of oral targeted delivery of bioactive proteins to the colon.

An updated review of functional properties, debittering methods, and applications of soybean functional peptides

Soybean functional peptides (SFPs) are obtained via the hydrolysis of soybean protein into polypeptides, oligopeptides, and a small amount of amino acids. They have nutritional value and a variety of functional properties, including regulating blood lipids, lowering blood pressure, anti-diabetes, anti-oxidant, preventing COVID-19, etc. SFPs have potential application prospects in food processing, functional food development, clinical medicine, infant milk powder, special medical formulations, among others. However, bitter peptides containing relatively more hydrophobic amino acids can be formed during the production of SFPs, seriously restricting the application of SFPs. High-quality confirmatory human trials are needed to determine effective doses, potential risks, and mechanisms of action, especially as dietary supplements and special medical formulations. Therefore, the physiological activities and potential risks of soybean polypeptides are summarized, and the existing debitterness technologies and their applicability are reviewed. The technical challenges and research areas to be addressed in optimizing debittering process parameters and improving the applicability of SFPs are discussed, including integrating various technologies to obtain higher quality functional peptides, which will facilitate further exploration of physiological mechanism, metabolic pathway, tolerance, bioavailability, and potential hazards of SFPs. This review can help promote the value of SFPs and the development of the soybean industry.

Albumin from Erythrina edulis (Pajuro) as a Promising Source of Multifunctional Peptides

Multifunctional peptides, capable of acting on different body systems through multiple mechanisms of action, offer many advantages over monofunctional peptides, including lower adverse side effects and costs. Erythrina edulis (pajuro) is a legume with a large number of high-quality proteins, of which their potential as a source of antioxidant peptides has been recently reported. In this study, the behavior of these proteins under a sequential enzymatic hydrolysis with digestive and microbial enzymes was investigated by evaluating the multi-functionality of the hydrolyzates. The albumin hydrolyzates obtained after the action of pepsin, pancreatin, and Alcalase showed antioxidant, angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE), α-amylase, α-glucosidase, and dipeptidyl peptidase (DPP)-IV inhibitory activities. The radical scavenging properties of the hydrolyzate could be responsible for the potent protective effects observed in FeSO4-induced neuroblastoma cells. The findings support the role of pajuro protein as an ingredient of functional foods or nutraceuticals for health promotion and the prevention of oxidative stress, hypertension, and metabolic alteration-associated chronic diseases.