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Biologically active dietary peptides
Gary P Zaloga1, Rafat A Siddiqui
1Methodist Research Institute of Clarian Health Inc and Department of Medicine of Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA. gzaloga@clarian.org
Mini Reviews in Medicinal Chemistry
|November 17, 2004
Summary
Dietary proteins yield numerous peptides during digestion, with smaller peptides being readily absorbed and influencing neural, endocrine, and immune functions. These bioactive peptides, even in small amounts, play a significant role in health and disease modulation.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology and Nutrition
- Immunology
- Biochemistry
Background:
- Dietary proteins are digested into various peptides in the gut.
- Absorption of peptides occurs through the gut mucosa, with smaller peptides (di- and tripeptides) being primary.
- Dietary peptides possess significant biological activity, influencing multiple physiological systems.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review normal protein digestion and absorption processes.
- To discuss the biological actions of specific amino acids (arginine, glutamine) and dietary peptides.
- To focus on the immune effects and broader health implications of dietary peptides.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of protein digestion and peptide absorption.
- Analysis of biological activities of specific amino acids and derived peptides.
- Examination of cardiovascular effects of carnosine and effects of different protein sources.
Main Results:
- Small peptides are the primary form of dietary nitrogen absorption.
- Many dietary peptides exhibit potent biological activity at low concentrations.
- Dietary peptides can modulate neural, endocrine, and immune functions.
Conclusions:
- Dietary peptides are biologically active molecules with significant physiological roles.
- Understanding peptide profiles from different protein sources is crucial for health.
- Dietary peptides hold potential for disease modulation and therapeutic interventions.