Understanding the Role of Filamentous Actin in Food Quality: From Structure to Application

Actin, a multifunctional protein highly expressed in eukaryotes, is widely distributed throughout cells and serves as a crucial component of the cytoskeleton. Its presence is integral to maintaining cell morphology and participating in various biological processes. As an irreplaceable component of myofibrillar proteins, actin, including G-actin and F-actin, is highly related to food quality. Up to now, purification of actin at a moderate level remains to be overcome. In this paper, we have reviewed the structures and functions of actin, the methods to obtain actin, and the relationships between actin and food texture, color, and flavor. Moreover, actin finds applications in diverse fields such as food safety, bioengineering, and nanomaterials. Developing an actin preparation method at the industrial level will help promote its further applications in food science, nutrition, and safety.