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Food-Derived Antihypertensive Peptides: Mechanisms, Multi-Methodological Approaches, Bioavailability, and Functional
Lucía Castillejos Ordóñez1, Nathaly Marcela Guzmán Pineda1, Beatriz Isabella Encalada Lizcano1
1Escuela de Biotecnología, Universidad Anáhuac Mayab, Carr. Mérida Progreso Km. 15.5 AP. 96 Cordemex, Mérida C.P. 97308, Yucatán, Mexico.
Molecules (Basel, Switzerland)
|May 27, 2026
Summary
Food-derived peptides show promise for lowering blood pressure, primarily through inhibiting angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE). Further research is needed to standardize methods and conduct human trials for functional food applications.
Area of Science:
- Food Science
- Biochemistry
- Nutraceuticals
Background:
- Hypertension is a global health concern.
- Food-derived bioactive peptides offer a potential natural approach to blood pressure management.
- Understanding their mechanisms, stability, and bioavailability is crucial for application.
Purpose of the Study:
- To systematically review evidence on food-derived antihypertensive peptides published between January 2020 and January 2025.
- To synthesize findings on mechanisms of action, molecular stability, bioavailability, and functional food applications.
- To identify research gaps and future directions.
Main Methods:
- Systematic literature search of PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science.
- Inclusion of peer-reviewed studies on antihypertensive/ACE-inhibitory peptides from various food matrices.
- Data extraction and synthesis focusing on activity, stability, transport, and in vivo efficacy.
Main Results:
- 177 studies were included, with plant and marine sources dominating (72%).
- Low-molecular-weight peptides (<3 kDa) were frequently studied.
- Evidence supports antihypertensive potential via ACE inhibition and vascular mechanisms.
- Encapsulation enhanced peptide stability and bioavailability.
Conclusions:
- Food-derived antihypertensive peptides are promising for functional foods and nutraceuticals.
- Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibition is a key mechanism.
- Methodological standardization, risk-of-bias assessment, and human trials are needed for clinical translation.
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