Scalable Jet-O-Mized Eggshell Membrane Processing for Bioactives Promoting Gut Health

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Nutraceuticals
• Gastroenterology

Background:

• Eggshell membrane (ESM) is an underutilized biomaterial.
• Developing scalable and effective methods for ESM bioactive extraction is needed for health applications.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a simplified, scalable two-step process for generating bioactive ESM formulations.
• To evaluate the gut health applications of these novel ESM derivatives.

Main Methods:

• Jet-O-mizer ultra-fine milling of ESM followed by KOH-mediated hydrolysis.
• Separation of soluble protein fraction (SJ) and simulated gastrointestinal digestion.
• Assessment of antioxidant capacity, antibacterial activity against E. coli, anti-inflammatory effects on RAW macrophages, and Caco-2 cell permeability.

Main Results:

• A 15-fold increase in antioxidant capacity compared to non-hydrolyzed JEM.
• SJ inhibited E. coli growth by 50% and reduced NO production in LPS-induced macrophages by 80%.
• Proteomics identified key anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial proteins; no significant impact on intestinal barrier integrity.

Conclusions:

• Novel, safe, and highly bioavailable ESM derivatives with multifunctional bioactivities were successfully generated.
• These ESM derivatives hold promise as dietary supplements for promoting gut health.