Proteomics perspective: differences in milk fat globule membrane proteins across regions and farming systems

The milk fat globule membrane (MFGM) proteome is crucial for milk's nutritional and functional properties, yet its regulatory mechanisms under different regional environments and farming systems remain unclear. In this study, a proteomics-based approach was employed to systematically analyze the MFGM proteome of Holstein milk from desert and non-desert regions under organic and non-organic farming systems. A total of 2121 MFGM proteins were identified across four sample groups. Between 16 and 28 unique proteins were identified per group, indicating specific regulatory effects of region and farming systems. Notably, desert organic milk was characterized by a distinct immune-enhanced profile, reflected in significant enrichment of the Neutrophil extracellular trap formation pathway and marked up-regulation of key defense proteins, including IGH, MPO, H2A/B, and CAMP. These findings provide new molecular-level insights into how regional environment and farming systems reshape milk protein functionality, offering a scientific basis for developing dairy products with unique health-promoting properties.