Identification of Whey Protein-Derived Anti-Obesity Peptides Through 3T3-L1 Adipocyte Differentiation Assay

Whey proteins are a rich source of bioactive peptides. Whey protein hydrolysate (WPH) can effectively improve metabolic syndrome and reduce the risk of obesity. Bioactive peptides isolated from various food sources exhibit anti-obesity effects. However, few reports are available on the identification of anti-obesity peptides from whey protein. In this study, we aimed to identify anti-obesity peptides from whey protein. Our findings revealed that WPH suppressed the accumulation of lipid droplets in 3T3-L1 adipocytes. Anti-obesity peptides in WPH were identified using amino acid sequencing and LC-MS analysis. Then, the inhibitory effects of the synthetic peptides on adipogenesis were assessed through Oil Red O staining. Two peptides were identified as anti-adipogenic: LDQW and LKPTPEGDLEIL. Subsequently, real-time PCR analysis found that several adipogenesis-related genes, such as peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ, were downregulated in the treatment with these peptides. Furthermore, LDQW and LKPTPEGDLEIL decreased the mRNA expression levels of stearoyl-coenzyme A desaturase 1 and increased carnitine palmitoyl transferase 1α expression in 3T3-L1 adipocytes. These findings indicate that LDQW and LKPTPEGDLEIL have anti-obesity properties and may be beneficial for treating metabolic diseases. This study provides a reference basis for developing new techniques to prevent obesity and related diseases.