Research Impact: This review explores the health benefits of fish protein hydrolysates (FPHs) and bioactive peptides, highlighting their potential for improving antioxidant capacity, glucose management, and muscle protein synthesis (MPS). Derived from fish and fish-processing coproducts, these hydrolysates are rich in essential amino acids and biologically active peptides that support metabolic health, sustainable protein production, and functional food development.
Key findings include the strong antioxidant properties of FPHs, attributed to specific amino acid compositions and sequences that enhance stability and reactive oxygen species (ROS) scavenging. FPH-derived peptides have shown effectiveness in vitro and in cell models, with promising antioxidant enzyme activity and ROS reduction. Their ability to chelate prooxidative metals further enhances their health benefits. For glucose management, FPHs demonstrate potential in regulating blood glucose levels by inhibiting enzymes like dipeptidyl peptidase-IV (DPP-IV), promoting insulin sensitivity, and supporting incretin hormone activity. These peptides may complement traditional diabetes management strategies, though further human studies are needed. For muscle health, FPHs stimulate MPS, particularly when they include branched-chain amino acids like leucine, which is pivotal for MPS regulation. Studies in muscle cell models have confirmed the ability of FPHs to support muscle growth and repair, emphasizing their role in combating muscle loss due to aging or calorie deficiency. The study underscores the need for more in vivo research to optimise FPH applications in health and nutrition, offering insights into sustainable protein sources with significant health-promoting properties.
Shekoohi, N., Carson, B. P., & Fitzgerald, R. J. (2024). Antioxidative, Glucose Management, and Muscle Protein Synthesis Properties of Fish Protein Hydrolysates and Peptides. Journal of agricultural and food chemistry, 72(39), 21301–21317. https://doi.org/10.1021/acs.jafc.4c02920
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