Plant proteases for bioactive peptides release: A review

Area of Science:

• Biochemistry
• Food Science
• Proteomics

Background:

• Proteins yield health-promoting bioactive peptides with diverse applications.
• Bioactive peptides are extensively researched for their medical and nutraceutical benefits.
• Dairy, animal, and vegetable proteins are sources, with enzymatic hydrolysis being a key production method.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the use and diversity of plant proteases for bioactive peptide release.
• To highlight commercial and novel plant protease sources.
• To discuss the properties and health benefits of plant protease-derived peptides.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of plant proteases in bioactive peptide production.
• Analysis of enzymatic hydrolysis processes using plant-derived enzymes.
• Examination of in vitro and in vivo studies on peptide bioactivity.

Main Results:

• Plant proteases, though less common than animal or microbial sources, are gaining traction.
• Commercial plant proteases like papain and bromelain are established, with new sources emerging.
• Peptides derived from plant proteases show potential in managing hypertension, diabetes, obesity, and cancer.

Conclusions:

• Plant proteases represent a growing and valuable resource for producing bioactive peptides.
• Further research into plant proteases can unlock new therapeutic and nutritional applications.
• Bioactive peptides from plant proteins offer promising avenues for disease management.