Cucurbitaceae Seed Protein Hydrolysates as a Potential Source of Bioactive Peptides with Functional Properties

Area of Science:

• Food Science and Technology
• Nutraceuticals
• Biochemistry

Background:

• Cucurbitaceae seeds are traditional sources of nutrition.
• Bioactive peptides from Cucurbitaceae seed proteins (CSP) are under-researched.
• Understanding CSP properties is key for health applications.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the latest research on bioactive and functional properties of CSP isolates and hydrolysates.
• To explore the impact of enzymatic hydrolysis on CSP.
• To highlight potential health benefits and applications of CSP.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of scientific studies on CSP isolates and hydrolysates.
• Analysis of enzymatic hydrolysis effects on protein structure and properties.
• Evaluation of reported bioactive and functional properties.

Main Results:

• Enzymatic hydrolysis enhances CSP solubility and bioactive properties.
• Medium hydrolysis degrees optimize both bioactive and functional characteristics.
• Key activities include antioxidant, antihypertensive, and antihyperglycaemic effects.

Conclusions:

• CSP hydrolysates possess significant health-promoting properties.
• They offer potential as natural alternatives to synthetic drugs and additives.
• CSP can be utilized as functional food ingredients due to their composition and properties.