Exploring bioactive peptides from Andean grains and their potential applications: a review

Andean grains, such as quinoa, amaranth, cañihua and lupin, have exceptional nutritional value and remain an underexplored source of bioactive peptides with diverse health-promoting properties. This review analyses 87 studies published between 2015 and 2026, following PRISMA guidelines, to map recent technological and biological advances in bioactive peptide research. Integrating in vitro, in silico, and in vivo evidence, it provides a comprehensive overview of peptide generation, characterization, and biological activities. Advances in ultrafiltration, electrodialysis, chromatography, and high-resolution mass spectrometry have facilitated the separation and identification of peptides exhibiting antioxidant, antihypertensive, antidiabetic, anti-inflammatory, anticancer, antimicrobial, antifatigue and mineral-chelating activities. In silico analysis, particularly molecular docking studies, have revealed strong binding affinities to regulatory proteins involved in metabolic and cellular defence pathways, while animal models have shown beneficial effects partially mediated through gut microbiota modulation. The novelty of this review lies in its multiscale integration of peptide research and its emphasis on underrepresented Andean grains. It highlights emerging technologies such as high hydrostatic pressure, ultrasound, and fermentation as promising strategies to enhance peptide yield and functionality and explore the food formulation that includes bioactive peptides. Overall, this review underscores the potential of Andean grains as sustainable sources of next-generation ingredients for a wide range of applications across the food, health, and technology sectors.