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Updated: Aug 14, 2026
15:06
Synthesis of an Intein-mediated Artificial Protein Hydrogel
Published on: January 27, 2014
Bioactive and Functional Properties of Protein Isolates and Hydrolysates from Edible Insects
Danka Dragojlović1, Ivana Čabarkapa1, Dragana Tomanić1
1Institute of Food Technology in Novi Sad, University of Novi Sad, Bulevar Cara Lazara 1, 21000 Novi Sad, Serbia.
Foods (Basel, Switzerland)
|August 13, 2026
Summary
Insect proteins from Tenebrio molitor, Zophobas morio, and Acheta domesticus show antioxidant properties. Enzymatic hydrolysis yielded protein hydrolysates with antimicrobial activity, highlighting their potential as sustainable ingredients.
Area of Science:
- Food Science and Technology
- Biochemistry
- Entomology
Background:
- Edible insects are a sustainable protein source.
- Insect-derived proteins possess bioactive properties.
- Characterization of insect protein functionality is crucial for application.
Purpose of the Study:
- To isolate and characterize bioactive proteins from Tenebrio molitor, Zophobas morio, and Acheta domesticus insect flours.
- To evaluate the antioxidant and antimicrobial potential of insect protein isolates and hydrolysates.
Main Methods:
- Defatted insect flours underwent alkaline extraction and isoelectric precipitation.
- Protein isolates were analyzed for chemical composition, solubility, and antioxidant activity (ABTS assay).
- Enzymatic hydrolysis with Alcalase generated protein hydrolysates, which were tested for antimicrobial activity.
Main Results:
- All protein isolates demonstrated significant antioxidant potential.
- Protein hydrolysates exhibited antimicrobial activity against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus epidermidis.
- Zophobas morio hydrolysate showed the highest antioxidant potential, while Acheta domesticus hydrolysate had the strongest antibacterial activity.
Conclusions:
- Insect protein isolates possess inherent antioxidant capabilities.
- Enzymatic hydrolysis enhances the bioactivity of insect proteins, conferring antimicrobial properties.
- Edible insect proteins are promising sustainable sources for antioxidant and antimicrobial ingredients in various industries.
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