A combined microphysiological-computational omics approach in dietary protein evaluation.

Area of Science:

• Nutritional Science
• Biotechnology
• Food Science

Background:

• Growing global population necessitates exploring alternative protein sources for food security.
• Nutritional evaluation requires comparing digesta peptide composition and biological effects of various proteins.
• Cow's whey protein concentrate (WPC) serves as a benchmark for protein evaluation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare seventeen protein sources against WPC using a combined experimental and computational approach.
• To assess the impact of protein digests on intestinal barrier integrity, viability, enzyme activity, and immune parameters.
• To determine if protein source dictates bioactive peptide delivery and biological efficacy.

Main Methods:

• In vitro protein digestion followed by proteomics analysis and statistical clustering.
• Utilized a bioengineered intestine (microphysiological gut system) to evaluate functional protein effects.
• Integrated digesta peptide composition with biological efficacy data for holistic analysis.

Main Results:

• Digesta peptide composition analysis yielded 3 clusters, primarily based on WPC overlap.
• Biological efficacy assessment in a gut model resulted in 6 clusters, driven by viability, enzyme activity, and immune responses.
• Combined proteomic and biological data produced 5 clusters, influenced by both peptide profiles and functional effects.

Conclusions:

• Protein source (animal, plant, or alternative) is not the primary determinant of bioactive peptide delivery.
• Biological efficacy is influenced by a combination of peptide composition and functional effects.
• This holistic approach provides a new framework for evaluating protein sources for nutritional value and food security applications.