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Introduction: Skeletal muscle satellite cells (SC) contribute to the adaptive process of resistance exercise training (RET) and may be influenced by nutritional supplementation. However, little research exists on the impact of multi-ingredient supplementation on the SC response to RET., Purpose: We tested the effect of a multi-ingredient supplement (MIS) including whey protein, creatine, leucine, calcium citrate, and vitamin D on SC content and activity as well as myonuclear accretion, SC and myonuclear domain compared with a collagen control (COL) throughout a 10-wk RET program., Methods: Twenty-six participants underwent a 10-wk linear RET program while consuming either the MIS or COL supplement twice daily. Muscle biopsies were taken from the vastus lateralis at baseline and 48 h after a bout of damaging exercise, before and after RET. Muscle tissue was analyzed for SC and myonuclear content, domain, acute SC activation, and fiber cross-sectional area (fCSA)., Results: MIS resulted in a greater increase in type II fCSA following 10 wk of RET (effect size (ES) = 0.89) but not myonuclear accretion or SC content. Change in myonuclei per fiber was positively correlated with type I and II and total fiber hypertrophy in the COL group only, indicating a robust independent effect of MIS on fCSA. Myonuclear domain increased similarly in both groups, whereas SC domain remained unchanged following RET. SC activation was similar between groups for all fiber types in the untrained state but showed a trend toward greater increases with MIS after RET (ES = 0.70)., Conclusions: SC responses to acute damaging exercise and long-term RET are predominantly similar in MIS and COL groups. However, MIS can induce greater increases in type II fCSA with RET and potentially SC activation following damage in the trained state., (Copyright © 2024 by the American College of Sports Medicine.)

Introduction: Novel treatments are being researched to develop more safe and effective protective medications for anaphylaxis. Camel whey protein (CWP) and baicalein (BAC, one of the major flavones) have multiple beneficial properties including anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities., Methods: The current study investigated/compared the therapeutic protection of repeated intragastric administration of CWP (100 mg/kg body weight, as an animal extract) and BAC (10 mg/kg body weight, as a plant extract), before the challenge with ovalbumin (OVA) or receiving the compound 48/80 (C48/80), against mice models for IgE-independent and dependent anaphylaxes. Besides, their effects on mast cells (MCs) downstream cell signaling were explored., Results: The results revealed that CWP and BAC reduced the mortality rate, as compared with a MCs stabilizer "sulfasalazine (SSZ, 100 mg/kg body weight, intraperitoneally)," in both mice models. Furthermore, they prevented the MCs degranulation and significantly reduced (p < .05) lung tissue levels of cell signaling (p-AKT, p-ERK, and p-IκBα). Additionally, they decreased histamine, tryptase, leukotriene C4, prostaglandin D2, interleukin (IL)-4, and IL-10 levels in broncho-alveolar and peritoneal lavages in systemic anaphylaxis mice models. They also restored the stabilization of peritoneal MCs membrane in inverted light microscopy results accompanied by amelioration of the lung histology., Discussion: The present study provided evidence for the protective therapeutic effect of CWP and BAC against anaphylaxis. As a result, CWP and BAC may be used as preventative supplemented regimens for both non-vegetarian and vegetarian consumers to treat allergy through downregulation of MCs signal transduction pathways, and hence controlling the production of inflammatory mediators.

The study aimed to investigating the mechanisms of relieved intestinal barrier damage by dynamic high-pressure microfluidization assisted with galactooligosaccharide- glycated whey protein isolate. The modifications changed the multi-structure, and the modified whey protein isolate could promote the proliferation of IEC-6 cells and contributed to the restoration of LPS-induced occludin damage in IEC-6 cells. Also, it could repair cyclophosphamide-induced ileal villus rupture and crypt destruction in BALB/c mice, significantly altered the abundance of dominant bacteria, which were associated with propionic acid, butyric acid, isovaleric acid, and valeric acid. Ileum transcriptomics revealed that the modified whey protein isolate significantly regulate of the levels of Cstad, Cyp11a1, and Hs6st2 genes, relating to the increase of propionic acid, isovaleric acid, and valeric acid. In conclusion, galactooligosaccharide- modified whey protein isolate could regulate the level of Cstad, Cyp11a1 and Hs6st2 genes by altering the gut microbial structure and the level of SCFAs, thereby repairing the intestinal barrier., Competing Interests: Declaration of competing interest The authors declare that they have no known competing financial interests or personal relationships that could have appeared to influence the work reported in this paper., (Copyright © 2024 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.)

This study characterized the sleep activity, sleep mechanism, and active peptides of whey protein hydrolysates selected through behavioral analysis of fruit flies (Drosophila melanogaster). Sleep-inducing whey protein (WP) hydrolysate was selected through fruit fly behavior analysis, and sleep activity was measured using a pentobarbital model and electroencephalographic analysis. The mechanism of action was confirmed using a γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) receptor antagonist, and the active peptide was identified using liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry. Whey protein hydrolysate, prepared using Alcalase and Prozyme (WP-AP), increased sleep time in a dose-dependent manner. The WP-AP significantly increased not only sleep time but also slow-wave sleep and showed an insomnia-alleviating effect in a caffeine-induced insomnia mouse model. In addition, the gene and protein expression levels of GABA subtype A receptors increased in the brains of mice orally administered with WP-AP. Through peptide analysis, the mixture of DIQK, VPPF peptide, and GABA contained in WP-AP was estimated to exhibit sleep activity, and due to its high content, DIQK was speculated to be the main sleep-inducing ingredient. These results indicate that WP-AP has the potential to be used as a new ingredient to improve sleep quality., (The Authors. Published by Elsevier Inc. on behalf of the American Dairy Science Association®. This is an open access article under the CC BY license (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/).)

The purpose of this study was to prepare Pickering emulsion with synergistic antibacterial effect using whey protein isolated-citral (WPI-Cit) nanoparticles with eugenol for grape preservation. In this emulsion, eugenol was encapsulated in oil phase. The particle size, ζ-potential, and antibacterial mechanism of the nanoparticles were characterized. The rheological properties, antibacterial effects and preservation effects of WPI-Cit Pickering emulsion were measured. The results showed that the optimal preparation condition was performed at WPI/Cit mass ratio of 1:1, WPI-Cit nanoparticles were found to damage the cell wall and membrane of bacteria and showed more effective inhibition against S. aureus. Pickering emulsion prepared with WPI-Cit nanoparticles exhibited a better antibacterial effect after eugenol was encapsulated in it, which extended the shelf life of grapes when the Pickering emulsion was applied as a coating. It demonstrated that the Pickering emulsion prepared in this study provides a new way to extend the shelf life., Competing Interests: Declaration of competing interest The authors declare that they have no known competing financial interests or personal relationships that could have appeared to influence the work reported in this paper., (Copyright © 2024 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)

Mental disorders have become one of the most burdensome health concerns. We have previously demonstrated that whey-derived β-lactolin (glycine-thereonine-tryptophan-tyrosine tetrapeptide) activates dopaminergic systems and improves psychiatric function in rodents. However, the effects of β-lactolin on human mood states have not been investigated. This randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study aimed to evaluate the effects of supplementation with β-lactolin-rich whey peptide on human mood states. Sixty healthy adults (aged 45-64 years) with relatively low psychological health were randomly allocated to receive either whey peptide (containing β-lactolin 1.6 mg/day) or placebo for 6 weeks. Mood states (primary outcomes) were evaluated using self-reporting questionnaires. Health-related quality of life (QOL), salivary stress marker and lipid mediator levels were evaluated as secondary outcomes. Compared with placebo, supplementation with β-lactolin improved changes in trait anxiety (p = 0.046), as assessed using the state-trait anxiety inventory, and in subjective stress (p = 0.043), as assessed using the Perceived Stress Scale. In the assessment of QOL, changes in the vitality subscale and mental health summary score of the 36-Item Short-Form Health Survey were improved in the β-lactolin group. The levels of salivary immunoglobulin A were significantly higher in the β-lactolin group. In a subgroup analysis by median age (54.5 years), subjective stress and salivary prostaglandin levels were significantly decreased by β-lactolin supplementation in the 45-54 -year-old subgroup. In conclusion, supplementation with β-lactolin improves trait anxiety, subjective stress, and psychological QOL, which may be associated with immunologic responses detected via salivary analysis., (© 2024. The Author(s).)

Fucoxanthin (FX), a non-provitamin-A carotenoid, is a well-known major xanthophyll contained in edible brown algae. The nanoencapsulation of FX was motivated due to its multiple activities. Here, nano-encapsulated-FX (nano-FX) was prepared according to our early method by using whey protein and flaxseed gum as the biomacromolecule carrier material, then in vivo antitumor effect and mechanism of nano-FX on xenograft mice were investigated. Thirty 4-week-old male BALB/c nude mice were fed adaptively for 7 days to establish xenograft tumor model with Huh-7 cells. The tumor-bearing mice consumed nano-FX (50, 25, and 12.5 mg kg -1 ) and doxorubicin hydrochloride (DOX, 1 mg kg -1 ) or did not consume (Control) for 21 days, n = 6. The tumor inhibition rates of nano-FX were as high as 54.67 ± 1.04 %. Nano-FX intervention promoted apoptosis and induced hyperchromatic pyknosis and focal necrosis in tumor tissue by down-regulating the expression of p-JNK, p-ERK, PI3Kp85α, p-AKT, p-p38MAPK, Bcl-2, CyclinD1 and Ki-67, while up-regulating the expression of cleaved caspase-3 and Bax. Nano-FX inhibited tumor growth and protected liver function of tumor bearing mice in a dose-dependent manner, up-regulate the level of apoptosis-related proteins, inhibit the MAPK-PI3K/Akt pathways, and promote tumor cell apoptosis., Competing Interests: Declaration of competing interest The authors state that they have no known competing financial interests or interpersonal relationships that could have appeared to influence the work reported in this paper., (Copyright © 2024 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.)

Forest frog's oviduct oil (FFOO) is highly susceptible to microbial spoilage during storage, which causes serious safety concerns and economic losses. However, little information is available regarding the preservation of it up to now. The aim of this research is to understand the dominant microbial community of FFOO spoilage, and based on this, develop a kind of edible nanoemulsion coating for preserving FFOO. Microbial metagenomic analysis indicated that the Aspergillus genus increased significantly during storage. In the present study, gum arabic and whey protein isolate were chosen as the coating matrix, the natural compounds sanguinarine and glabridin were selected as antimicrobial agents to prepare double-layer nanoemulsion edible coating. When the ratio of sanguinarine and glabridin in the nanoemulsion was 1:3, it exhibited strongest storage stability and antifungal activity. The mycelial inhibition rate of 1:3 nanoemulsion against dominant microbial community (Aspergillus niger and Aspergillus glaucus) reached 88.89 ± 1.37 % and 89.68 ± 1.37 %, respectively. The experimental results indicated that the edible nanoemulsion coating not only had outstanding antifungal activity, but also had excellent fresh-keeping effect on FFOO. This nanoemulsion coating could be a promising and potential candidate for food preservation., Competing Interests: Declaration of competing interest The authors declare that they have no known competing financial interests or personal relationships that could have appeared to influence the work reported in this paper., (Copyright © 2024. Published by Elsevier B.V.)

In this study, a whey protein isolate (WPI)-chitooligosaccharide (COS) stabilized bitter melon (Momordica charantia L.) seed oil emulsions (WC-BSOE) were prepared using the electrostatic layer-by-layer self-assembly technique, and their modulating effects on ulcerative colitis (UC) were investigated in dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced UC mice model. The stability and releasing ability of WC-BSOE under simulated gastrointestinal digestion condition and their acute toxicity were also investigated. The results showed that WC-BSOE was stable to droplet aggregation in the simulated gastric and intestinal fluids and exhibited sustained release profile during gastrointestinal transit, evidenced by the measurement of particle size, polydispersity index, zeta-potential and released free fatty acids contents. Moreover, WC-BSOE had no toxic effects on BALB/c mice within the dose range of 40,000 mg/kg body weight (BW), and treatment with WC-BSOE at a dosage of 15 mg/kg BW effectively relieved DSS-induced UC symptoms in mice. Furthermore, WC-BSOE could improve the IL-4 and IgA contents in serum, as well as up-regulate the occludin and ZO-1 expressions and down-regulate MPO, MDA and ROS levels in colon tissues of colitis mice, and it also elevated the diversity and relative abundances of Firmicutes, Bacteroides, and Lactobacillus in the intestinal microbiota. These findings indicated that WC-BSOE exerted protective effects in UC through decreasing proinflammatory cytokines, increasing tight junction proteins, suppressing oxidative stress, and regulating intestinal microbiota. Collectively, this study suggested WC-BSOE might be developed as a promising dietary supplement for UC protection., Competing Interests: Declaration of competing interest The authors declare that they have no conflict of interest., (Copyright © 2024 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.)

Purpose: The importance of maintaining good mental health with overall well-being has recently drawn attention from various fields. Functional peptides found from various protein sources reportedly reduce mental health problems. We found a new decapeptide (AJI-801) from whey proteins, which can possibly improve mood status and increase blood acetyl-L-carnitine (ALC) and fibroblast growth factor 21 (FGF21) levels. In this study, we assessed the effects of a single intake of whey protein hydrolysate containing a high amount of AJI-801 (WPH) on blood variables and mood status., Methods: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled cross-over trial of two doses of WPH (100 and 500 mg) was conducted. Participants, aged between 20 and 59 years with fatigue were allocated to two groups based on the WPH doses received, and set first test food in each study. The blood ALC and FGF21 levels at baseline and after 60, 120, and 180 min of test food intake were analyzed and the responses to the questionnaire items for mood status were obtained at baseline and after 60 and 180 min of test food intake., Results: There were no significant differences in the blood ALC and FGF21 levels between the two groups. As mood status, intake of 500-mg WPH (including 2.5-mg AJI-801) showed significant improvement in Depression/Dejection of the Profile of Mood States Questionnaire second edition and visual analog scale score for depression, as compared to the placebo., Conclusions: Intake of AJI-801 500-mg WPH (including 2.5-mg AJI-801) contributes to the improvement of feeling down in healthy persons with fatigue., Trial Registration: University Hospital Medical Information Network Clinical Trial Registry (UMIN 000046829)., (© 2024. The Author(s).)

The effect of whey protein isolate (WPI)- galacto-oligosaccharides (GOS)/fructo-oligosaccharides (FOS) conjugates on RAW264.7 cells, and further the effect of WPI-GOS conjugates on CTX-induced immunosuppressed mice were investigated. Compared to WPI-FOS conjugates, WPI-GOS conjugates exhibited deeper glycation extent, more pronounced structural unfolding and helix-destabilizing, and obviously improved functional indicators of RAW264.7 macrophages. In addition, WPI-GOS conjugates also repaired immune organ and intestinal barrier and increased IL-1β and IFN-γ levels in immunosuppressed mice. The alteration of gut microbiota induced by WPI-GOS conjugates changed the serum metabolites, causing the activation of NFκB pathway, which strengthens the immune system. The activation of NFκB pathway maybe associated with the mTOR signal pathway and ABC transporters. However, the precise mechanisms by which NFκB pathway interacts with mTOR signal pathway and ABC transporters to modulate the immune response need for further research., Competing Interests: Declaration of competing interest The authors declare that they have no known competing financial interests or personal relationships that could have appeared to influence the work reported in this paper., (Copyright © 2024 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.)

Nutritional supplementation enriched with protein and antioxidants has been demonstrated to effectively strengthen skeletal muscle function and mitigate the risk of sarcopenia. Dietary protein has also been a common carrier to establish bioactive delivery system. Therefore, in this study, a Pickering emulsion delivery system for rutin was constructed with whey protein, and its structural characteristics, bioaccessibility, and molecular interactions were investigated. In the in vivo study, zebrafish ( n = 10 in each group), which have a high genetic homology to humans, were treated with dexamethasone to induce sarcopenia symptoms and were administered with rutin, whey protein and the Pickering emulsion, respectively, for muscle movement ability evaluation, and zebrafish treated with or without dexamethasone was used as the model and the control groups, respectively. Results showed that the Pickering emulsion was homogeneous in particle size with a rutin encapsulation rate of 71.16 ± 0.15% and loading efficiency of 44.48 ± 0.11%. Rutin in the Pickering emulsion exhibited a significantly higher bioaccessibility than the free form. The interaction forces between rutin and the two components of whey proteins (α-LA and β-LG) were mainly van der Waals forces and hydrogen bonds. After treatment for 96 h, the zebrafish in Picking emulsion groups showed a significantly increased high-speed movement time and frequency, an increased level of ATP, prolonged peripheral motor nerve length, and normalized muscular histological structure compared with those of the model group ( p < 0.05). The results of this study developed a new strategy for rutin utilization and provide scientific evidence for sarcopenia prevention with a food-derived resource.

Glycomacropeptide (GMP) has a unique amino acid profile which may make less satiating than other dietary proteins. This study assessed the feasibility and likely acceptability of a leucine-enriched GMP drink and determined appetite response in older adults (OA). Thirteen OA (11f; 70 ± 4 years) were recruited for sensory assessments of a leucine-enriched GMP drink when mixed with water and with fruit smoothie, compared with whey protein isolate (WHEY). Participants also partook in a single focus group exploring acceptability to protein and supplementation. Separately, a counterbalanced, double-blind study with twelve OA (8f; 69 ± 3 years) was conducted to determine appetite and gut hormone responses. Fasting subjective appetite was recorded using visual analogue scales and a fasted venous blood sample was collected (to measures acyl-ghrelin, PYY, GLP-1, and CCK) before participants consumed either: GMP protein (27g + 3g leucine, 350 mL water), WHEY (30g, 350 mL water), or water. Participants rested for 240 min, with appetite measures and blood sampling throughout. An ad libitum pasta-based meal was then consumed. Sensory testing revealed low pleasantness rating for GMP in water vs. WHEY (16 ± 14 vs 31 ± 24, p = 0.016). GMP addition to smoothie reduced pleasantness (26 ± 21 vs. 61 ± 29, p = 0.009) and worsened the aroma (46 ± 15 vs. 69 ± 28, p = 0.014). The focus group revealed uncertainty of protein needs and a scepticism of supplements, with preference for food. Gut hormone response did not differ between GMP and WHEY (nAUC for all gut hormones p > 0.05). There was no difference between conditions for lunch ad libitum intake (549 ± 171 kcal, 512 ± 238 kcal, 460 ± 199 kcal for GMP, WHEY, and water, p = 0.175), or for subjective appetite response. Leucine-enriched GMP was not less satiating than WHEY, and low palatability and scepticism of supplements question the likely acceptability of GMP supplementation. Providing trusted nutritional advice and food enrichment/fortification may be preferred strategies for increasing protein intake in OA., Competing Interests: Declaration of competing interest This work was supported by a Pump-Priming Award from the Food 4 Years Network. Milk Specialties Global provided a non-monetary contribution in the form of test drinks. L.O. is an employee of Milk Specialties Global. L.O. contributed to the conception of the research question, but did not contribute to data collection, analyses, or interpretation. All other authors declare no conflicts of interest., (Copyright © 2024. Published by Elsevier Ltd.)

Background: Exercise-induced bronchoconstriction (EIB) is highly prevalent in athletes. The objective of this study was to assess the therapeutic efficacy of daily tangeretin combined with whey protein supplementation over a period of 4 weeks in professional athletes with EIB., Methods: Using a placebo-controlled, double-blind, paired, randomized trial design, a cohort of 30 professional athletes with EIB, consisting of 14 females and 16 males, was divided into two groups: the tangeretin combined with whey protein intervention group (TIG), and the placebo control group (PCG). Both the TIG and PCG underwent exercise challenge tests (ECT) and VO 2max tests before (ECT 1 , V1) and after (ECT 2 , V2) the intervention. Blood (eosinophils, neutrophils, and basophils) and serum (interleukin-5, IL-5; interleukin-8, IL-8; Clara cell secretory protein-16, CC16; immunoglobulin E, IgE) levels were measured early in the morning of ECT 1 and ECT 2 , respectively. Lung function was assessed immediately before and post-ECT immediately., Results: Tangeretin combined with whey protein use for 4 weeks attenuated the decrease in forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV 1 ) post trials (∆FEV 1 (ECT1-ECT2): mean (SD) TIG -7.51(6.9)% vs. PCG -2.33(11.49)%, p  = 0.013). Tangeretin also substantially attenuated IL-5 concentration (∆IL-5(T 1 -T 5 ): Tangeretin -19.4% vs Placebo + 8.37%, p  = 0.022); IL-8 concentration (∆IL-8(T 1 -T 5 ): Tangeretin -17.28% vs Placebo + 6.1%, p  = 0.012); CC16 concentration (∆CC16(T 1 -T 5 ): Tangeretin -11.77% vs Placebo + 24.19%); and IgE concentration in the serum (∆IgE(T 1 -T 5 ): Tangeretin -24.1% vs Placebo -3.9%), and significantly decreased neutrophil count (∆N(T 1 -T 5 ): Tangeretin -11.34% vs Placebo + 0.3%) and eosinophil count in blood (∆N(T 1 -T 5 ): Tangeretin -38.5% vs Placebo + 4.35%). Compared with V1, VO 2max ( p  = 0.042) and TLim ( p  = 0.05) of V2 were significantly increased in the TIG, and there was no significant change in the PCG. Meanwhile, six athletes in the TIG and 0 athletes in the PCG became EIB-negative at ECT 2 ; the overall negative conversion rate of EIB was 40.00% in TCG. Additionally, the number of cough symptoms decreased from 9 to 3 and dyspnea from 4 to 2 in the TIG., Conclusion: After high-intensity exercise, athletes with EIB achieved significant improvements in lung function and blood inflammatory factors by combining tangeretin and whey protein supplementation. EIB athletes also showed longer exercise endurance and VO 2max at 4 weeks after TI. In addition, some patient symptoms disappeared after combination supplementation. The effect of this treatment on professional athletes with EIB was beneficial.

Background: As a relatively novel approach to enhancing skeletal muscle health, mixed protein supplementation has shown similar responses to whey protein. However, no previous studies have examined its impact on golf swing performance. This study aimed to examine the effect of mixed protein supplementation on the swing performance and muscle strength of casual golfers., Methods: Sixty participants with a handicap of less than 20 were recruited and randomly assigned to a double-blind, placebo-controlled study design. The participants were divided into two groups: a mixed protein group (MG, n  = 30), and a placebo control group (CG, n  = 30). They were instructed to ingest either a supplement containing casein calcium, whey protein, and isolated pea protein, or a placebo, once daily for 8 weeks. Pre- and posttests consisted of anthropometric measurements, muscle strength (isokinetic knee and trunk strength, and handgrip strength), 2-minute push-ups, balance, and golf swing performance using a driver and 7-iron., Results: After the 8-week supplementation period, ANCOVA, using baseline values as covariates, revealed significant differences for driver distance ( p  = .004) and driver ball speed ( p  < .001). MG significantly increased driver distance by 5.17 ± 12.8 m ( p  = .046), driver ball speed by 1.36 ± 2.87 m/s ( p  = .021). Additionally, significantly improvements were observed in hand grip strength (+2.12 ± 3.47 kg, p  = .004), two-minute push-ups (+4.89 ± 8.14 reps, p  = .004), and balance score (-0.37 ± 0.69 min, p  = .009). No significant differences were observed in body composition parameters ( p  > .05)., Conclusion: The intake of a mixed protein containing both animal and plant proteins had positive effects on golf performance and muscle function. Therefore, mixed proteins may represent a safe and effective approach to enhancing skeletal muscle health in golf players.

Nisin is the first FDA-approved antimicrobial peptide and shows significant antimicrobial activity against Gram-positive bacteria, but only a weakly inhibitory effect on Gram-negative bacteria. The aim of this study was to prepare whey protein-based edible films with the incorporation of milk-derived antimicrobial peptides (α s2 -casein 151 - 181 and α s2 -casein 182 - 207 ) and compare their mechanical properties and potential application in cheese packaging with films containing nisin. These two antimicrobial peptides showed similar activity against B. subtilis and much higher activity against E. coli than bacteriocin nisin, representing that these milk-derived peptides had great potential to be applied as food preservatives. Antimicrobial peptides in whey protein films caused an increase in film opaqueness and water vapor barrier properties but decreased the tensile strength and elongation at break. Compared to other films, the whey protein film containing α s2 -casein 151 - 181 had good stability in salt or acidic solution, as evidenced by the results from scanning electron microscope and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. Whey protein film incorporated with α s2 -casein 151 - 181 could inhibit the growth of yeasts and molds, and control the growth of psychrotrophic bacteria present originally in the soft cheese at refrigerated temperature. It also exhibited significant inhibitory activity against the development of mixed culture (E. coli and B. subtilis) in the cheese due to superficial contamination during storage. Antimicrobial peptides immobilized in whey protein films showed a higher effectiveness than their direct application in solution. In addition, films containing α s2 -casein 151 - 181 could act as a hurdle inhibiting the development of postprocessing contamination on the cheese surface during the 28 days of storage. The films in this study exhibited the characteristics desired for active packaging materials., Competing Interests: Declaration of competing interest The authors have declared no conflict of interest to this work., (Copyright © 2024 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.)

Purpose: Intestinal permeability is a critical component of gut barrier function. Barrier dysfunction can be triggered by certain stressors such as exercise, and if left unmanaged can lead to local and systemic disorders. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of a specific whey protein fraction in alleviating exercise-induced gut permeability as assessed by recovery of lactulose/rhamnose (L/R) and lactulose/mannitol (L/M) urinary probes., Methods: Eight males and eight females (aged 18-50) completed two arms of a double-blind, placebo-controlled, crossover study. For each arm participants performed two baseline intestinal permeability assessments, following which they consumed the treatment (2 g/day of milk powder containing 200 mg of whey protein) or placebo (2 g/day of milk powder) for 14 days, before performing a post-exercise permeability assessment. The exercise protocol involved a 20-min run at 80% of maximal oxygen uptake on a 1% incline., Results: Mixed model analysis revealed an increase in L/R (23%; P < 0.001) and L/M (20%; P < 0.01) recovery following exercise. However, there was no treatment or treatment × exercise effect., Conclusion: The exercise protocol utilised in our study induces gut permeability. However, consuming whey protein, at the dose and timing prescribed, is not able to mitigate this effect., (© 2024. The Author(s).)

Whey derived peptides have shown potential activity improving brain function in pathological condition. However, there is little information about their mechanism of action on glial cells, which have important immune functions in brain. Astrocytes and microglia are essential in inflammatory and oxidative defense that take place in neurodegenerative disease. In this work we evaluate antioxidant and anti-inflammatory potential bioactivity of whey peptide in glial cells. Peptides were formed during simulated gastrointestinal digestion (Infogest protocol), and low molecular weight (<5kDA) peptides (WPHf) attenuated reactive oxygen species (ROS) production induced by hydrogen peroxide stimulus in both cells in dose-dependent manner. WPHf induced an increase in the antioxidant glutathione (GSH) content and prevented GSH reduction induced by lipopolysaccharides (LPS) stimulus in astrocytes cells in a cell specific form. An increase in cytokine mRNA expression (TNFα and IL6) and nitric oxide secretion induced by LPS was attenuated by WPHf pre-treatment in both cells. The inflammatory pathway was dependent on NFκB activation. Bioactive peptide ranking analysis showed positive correlation with hydrophobicity and negative correlation with high molecular weights. The sequence identification revealed 19 peptides cross-referred with bioactive database. Whey peptides were rich in leucine, valine and tyrosine in the C-terminal region and lysine in the N-terminal region. The anti-inflammatory and antioxidant potential of whey peptides were assessed in glia cells and its mechanisms of action were related, such as modulation of antioxidant enzymes and anti-inflammatory pathways. Features of the peptide structure, such as molecular size, hydrophobicity and types of amino acids present in the terminal region are associated to bioactivity., Competing Interests: Declaration of competing interest The authors declare that they have no known competing financial interests or personal relationships that could have appeared to influence the work reported in this paper., (Copyright © 2024 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)

Background: Skeletal muscle mass is determined predominantly by feeding-induced and activity-induced fluctuations in muscle protein synthesis (MPS). Older individuals display a diminished MPS response to protein ingestion, referred to as age-related anabolic resistance, which contributes to the progression of age-related muscle loss known as sarcopenia., Objectives: We aimed to determine the impact of consuming higher-quality compared with lower-quality protein supplements above the recommended dietary allowance (RDA) on integrated MPS rates. We hypothesized that increasing total protein intake above the RDA, regardless of the source, would support higher integrated rates of myofibrillar protein synthesis., Methods: Thirty-one healthy older males (72 ± 4 y) consumed a controlled diet with protein intake set at the RDA: control phase (days 1-7). In a double-blind, randomized controlled fashion, participants were assigned to consume an additional 50 g (2 × 25g) of whey (n = 10), pea (n = 11), or collagen (n = 10) protein each day (25 g at breakfast and lunch) during the supplemental phase (days 8-15). Deuterated water ingestion and muscle biopsies assessed integrated MPS and acute anabolic signaling. Postprandial blood samples were collected to determine feeding-induced aminoacidemia., Results: Integrated MPS was increased during supplemental with whey (1.59 ± 0.11 %/d; P < 0.001) and pea (1.59 ± 0.14 %/d; P < 0.001) when compared with RDA (1.46 ± 0.09 %/d for the whey group; 1.46 ± 0.10 %/d for the pea group); however, it remained unchanged with collagen. Supplemental protein was sufficient to overcome anabolic signaling deficits (mTORC1 and rpS6), corroborating the greater postprandial aminoacidemia., Conclusions: Our findings demonstrate that supplemental protein provided at breakfast and lunch over the current RDA enhanced anabolic signaling and integrated MPS in older males; however, the source of additional protein may be an important consideration in overcoming age-related anabolic resistance. This trial was registered clinicaltrials.gov as NCT04026607., (Copyright © 2024 The Author(s). Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Sleep quality and duration can be impacted by diet, and has been linked to gut microbiota composition and function as the result of communication via the microbiota-gut-brain axis. As one strategy to improve sleep quality could be through the modulation of the gut microbiome, we assessed the effects of a dairy-based product containing whey protein, galacto-oligosaccharides, tryptophan, vitamins and minerals after a 3 weeks intervention on gut microbiota composition and (gut-brain related) functions on basis of 67 healthy subjects with moderate sleep disturbances. Associations of the gut microbiota with sleep quality and with response/non-response to the treatment were revealed by shotgun metagenomics sequencing of faecal DNA samples, and subsequent analyses of microbiota taxonomy and generic functionality. A database of manually curated Gut-Brain Modules (GBMs) was applied to analyse specific microbial functions/pathways that have the potential to interact with the brain. A moderate discriminating effect of the DP treatment on gut microbiota composition was revealed which could be mainly attributed to a decrease in Pseudomonas resinovorans, Flintibacter sp. KGM00164, Intestinimonas butyriciproducens, and Flavonifractor plautii. As interindividual variance in microbiota composition could have given rise to a heterogenous responsiveness of the subjects in the intervention group, we zoomed in on the differences between responders and non-responders. A significant difference in baseline microbiota composition between responders and non-responders was apparent, showing lower Bifidobacterium longum and Bifidobacterium adolescentis, and higher Faecalibacterium prausnitzii relative abundances in responders. The findings provide leads with respect to the effectiveness and potential underlying mechanisms of mode of action in sleep improvement that could support future nutritional interventions to aid sleep improvement.

Dietary factors, particularly proteins, have been extensively explored to combat cognitive impairment. We have previously reported that dietary fish (Alaska Pollock) protein (APP) is more effective than casein (CAS) or fish oil in maintaining short-term memory in senescence-accelerated mice prone 10 (SAMP10). To examine the specificity of the protective effect of APP intakes against short-term memory decline, we assessed the impact of various dietary animal proteins, including APP, CAS, chicken breast protein (CP), and whey protein (WP), against age-related cognitive function in SAMP10 mice. After feeding the experimental diets for 5 months, memory was assessed using the Y-maze. The APP group exhibited a significant increase in spontaneous alternation behavior as an indicator of working memory when group compared with groups fed with other protein source. Additionally, the APP group displayed significantly higher neurofilament heavy chain positivity than the CAS and CP groups, as evidenced immunohistochemical analysis. Gut microbiota analysis indicated that dietary APP significantly enhanced the relative abundance of Lactobacillus, which positively correlated with spontaneous alternation behavior. Collectively, these findings suggest that dietary APP is more effective than CAS, CP, or WP in preventing age-related short-term memory decline and morphological abnormalities in the hippocampal axons of SAMP10 mice. Moreover, APP-mediated improvements in cognitive deficits may be associated with changes in microbiota diversity. PRACTICAL APPLICATION: This research suggests that dietary fish protein from Alaska Pollock may be more efficient in prevention short-term memory decline in mice, compared to other animal proteins. This finding has practical implications for nutritional optimization, developing the new health food products, and elucidating the relationship between the impact of specific proteins on gut microbiota and prevention of age-related cognitive decline., (© 2024 Institute of Food Technologists.)

We recently demonstrated that acute oral ketone monoester intake induces a stimulation of postprandial myofibrillar protein synthesis rates comparable to that elicited following the ingestion of 10 g whey protein or their coingestion. The present investigation aimed to determine the acute effects of ingesting a ketone monoester, whey protein, or their coingestion on mechanistic target of rapamycin (mTOR)-related protein-protein colocalization and intracellular trafficking in human skeletal muscle. In a randomized, double-blind, parallel group design, 36 healthy recreationally active young males (age: 24.2 ± 4.1 yr) ingested either: 1 ) 0.36 g·kg -1 bodyweight of the ketone monoester (R)-3-hydroxybutyl (R)-3-hydroxybutyrate (KET), 2 ) 10 g whey protein (PRO), or 3 ) the combination of both (KET + PRO). Muscle biopsies were obtained in the overnight postabsorptive state (basal conditions), and at 120 and 300 min in the postprandial period for immunofluorescence assessment of protein translocation and colocalization of mTOR-related signaling molecules. All treatments resulted in a significant (Interaction: P < 0.0001) decrease in tuberous sclerosis complex 2 (TSC2)-Ras homolog enriched in brain (Rheb) colocalization at 120 min versus basal; however, the decrease was sustained at 300 min versus basal ( P < 0.0001) only in KET + PRO. PRO and KET + PRO increased (Interaction: P < 0.0001) mTOR-Rheb colocalization at 120 min versus basal; however, KET + PRO resulted in a sustained increase in mTOR-Rheb colocalization at 300 min that was greater than KET and PRO. Treatment intake increased mTOR-wheat germ agglutinin (WGA) colocalization at 120 and 300 min (Time: P = 0.0031), suggesting translocation toward the fiber periphery. These findings demonstrate that ketone monoester intake can influence the spatial mechanisms involved in the regulation of mTORC1 in human skeletal muscle. NEW & NOTEWORTHY We explored the effects of a ketone monoester (KET), whey protein (PRO), or their coingestion (KET + PRO) on mTOR-related protein-protein colocalization and intracellular trafficking in human muscle. All treatments decreased TSC2-Rheb colocalization at 120 minutes; however, KET + PRO sustained the decrease at 300 min. Only PRO and KET + PRO increased mTOR-Rheb colocalization; however, the increase at 300 min was greater in KET + PRO. Treatment intake increased mTOR-WGA colocalization, suggesting translocation to the fiber periphery. Ketone bodies influence the spatial regulation of mTOR.

In this study, the whey protein concentrate and xanthan gum complex obtained by specific pH treatment, along with κ-carrageenan (KC), were used to encapsulate Lactobacillus acidophilus JYLA-191 in an emulsion gel system. The effects of crosslinking and KC concentration on the visual characteristics, stability, mechanical properties, and formation mechanism of emulsion gels were investigated. The results of optical imaging, particle size distribution, and rheology exhibited that with the addition of crosslinking agents, denser and more homogeneous emulsion gels were formed, along with a relative decrease in the droplet size and a gradual increase in viscosity. Especially when the concentration of citric acid (CA) was 0.09 wt%, KC was 0.8 wt%, and K + was present in the system, the double-network emulsion gel was stable at high temperatures and in freezing environments, and the swelling ratio was the lowest (9.41%). Gastrointestinal tract digestive treatments and pasteurization revealed that the probiotics encapsulated in the double-network emulsion gel had a higher survival rate, which was attributed to the synergistic cross-linking of CA and K + biopolymers to construct the emulsion gels. Overall, this study highlights the potential of emulsion gels to maintain probiotic vitality and provides valuable insights for developing inventive functional foods., Competing Interests: Declaration of competing interest The authors declare that they do not have any commercial or associative interest that represents a conflict of interest in connection with the work submitted., (Copyright © 2024 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.)

Background: Whey proteins and their peptide derivatives have attracted a great attention of researchers in the pharmaceutical and nutritional fields, due to their numerous bio-functionalities. Aim: In the present research study, enzymatic protein hydrolysates (CWPHs) from camel whey proteins (CWPs) were produced and investigated for their antioxidant and antimicrobial potentials. Methods: Herein, Pepsin (gastric), and Trypsin and Chymotrypsin (pancreatic) enzymes were used to produce CWPHs. The obtained hydrolysates were characterize to ascertain the level of protein degradation and studies on their antimicrobial and antioxidant potential were conducted. Results: Among all CWPHs, a complete degradation of all different protein bands was perceived with Chymotrypsin-derived CWPHs, whereas, light bands of serum albumin and α-lactalbumin were observed with Trypsin and Pepsin-derived CWPHs. After enzymatic degradation, both CWPHs antioxidant and antimicrobial activities were improved. Chymotrypsin-derived CWPHs demonstrated higher DPPH and ABTS radical scavenging activities, anent the increase in proteolysis time. Compared to unhydrolyzed CWPs, higher metal chelating activities were displayed by Trypsin-derived CWPHs. No significant increase in the FRAP activities was noticed after CWPs hydrolysis using Trypsin and Chymotrypsin, while Pepsin-derived CWPHs showed higher reducing power. In terms of antimicrobial activity, significantly higher bacterial growth inhibition rates were exhibited by CWPHs compared to the unhydrolyzed CWP. Conclusion: Overall, CWPHs displayed enhanced antioxidative and antimicrobial properties., Competing Interests: Declaration of conflicting interestsThe author(s) declared no potential conflicts of interest with respect to the research, authorship, and/or publication of this article.

Chitosan (CTS) and chitosan oligosaccharides (COS) have been widely applied in food industry due to their bioactivities and functions. However, CTS and COS with positive charges could interact with proteins, such as whey protein isolate (WPI), influencing their digestion. Interaction among CTS/COS, FUC, and WPI/enzymes was studied by spectroscopy, chromatography, and chemical methods in order to reveal the role of FUC in relieving the inhibition of protein digestibility by CTS/COS and demonstrate the action mechanisms. As shown by the results, the addition of FUC increased degree of hydrolysis (DH) and free protein in the mixture of CTS and WPI to 3.1-fold and 1.8-fold, respectively, while raise DH value and free protein in the mixture of COS and WPI to 6.7-fold and 1.2-fold, respectively. The interaction between amino, carboxyl, sulfate, and hydroxyl groups from carbohydrates and protein could be observed, and notably, FUC could interact with CTS/COS preferentially to prevent CTS/COS from combining with WPI. In addition, the addition of FUC could also relieve the combination of CTS to trypsin, increasing the fluorescence intensity and concentration of trypsin by 83.3 % and 4.8 %, respectively. Thus, the present study demonstrated that FUC could alleviate the inhibitory effect of CTS/COS on protein digestion., Competing Interests: Declaration of competing interest The authors declare that we have no known competing financial interests or personal relationships that could have appeared to influence the work reported in this paper., (Copyright © 2024 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.)

A significant gap exists in the demand for safe and effective drugs for inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), and its associated intestinal fibrosis. As oxidative stress plays a central role in the pathogenesis of IBD, astaxanthin (AST), a good antioxidant with high safety, holds promise for treating IBD. However, the application of AST is restricted by its poor solubility and easy oxidation. Herein, different protein-based nanoparticles (NPs) are fabricated for AST loading to identify an oral nanovehicle with potential clinical applicability. Through systematic validation via molecular dynamics simulation and in vitro characterization of properties, whey protein isolate (WPI)-driven NPs using a simple preparation method without the need for cross-linking agents or emulsifiers were identified as the optimal carrier for oral AST delivery. Upon oral administration, the WPI-driven NPs, benefiting from the intrinsic pH sensitivity and mucoadhesive properties, effectively shielded AST from degradation by gastric juices and targeted release of AST at intestinal lesion sites. Additionally, the AST NPs displayed potent therapeutic efficacy in both dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced acute colitis and chronic colitis-associated intestinal fibrosis by ameliorating inflammation, oxidative damage, and intestinal microecology. In conclusion, the AST WPI NPs hold a potential therapeutic value in treating inflammation and fibrosis in IBD.

This study examined whey protein's impact on insulin resistance in a high-fat diet-induced pediatric obesity mouse model. Pregnant mice were fed high-fat diets, and male pups continued this diet until 8 weeks old, then were split into high-fat, whey, and casein diet groups. At 12 weeks old, their body weight, fasting blood glucose (FBG), blood insulin level (IRI), homeostatic model assessment for insulin resistance (HOMA-IR), liver lipid metabolism gene expression, and liver metabolites were compared. The whey group showed significantly lower body weight than the casein group at 12 weeks old ( p = 0.034). FBG was lower in the whey group compared to the high-fat diet group ( p < 0.01) and casein group ( p = 0.058); IRI and HOMA-IR were reduced in the whey group compared to the casein group ( p = 0.02, p < 0.01, p < 0.01, respectively). The levels of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor α and hormone-sensitive lipase were upregulated in the whey group compared to the casein group ( p < 0.01, p = 0.03). Metabolomic analysis revealed that the levels of taurine and glycine, both known for their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, were upregulated in the whey group in the liver tissue ( p < 0.01, p < 0.01). The intake of whey protein was found to improve insulin resistance in a high-fat diet-induced pediatric obesity mouse model.

Postbiotics have been proposed as clinically viable alternatives to probiotics, addressing limitations and safety concerns associated with probiotic use. However, direct comparisons between the functional differences and health benefits of probiotics and postbiotics remain scarce. This study compared directly the desensitization effect of probiotics and postbiotics derived from Lactiplantibacillus plantarum strain DPUL-F232 in the whey protein-induced allergic rat model. The results demonstrate that administering both live and heat killed F232 significantly alleviated allergy symptoms, reduced intestinal inflammation, and decreased serum antibody and histamine levels in rats. Both forms of F232 were effective in regulating the Th1/Th2 balance, promoting the secretion of the regulatory cytokine IL-10, inhibiting mast cell degranulation and restoring the integrity of the intestinal barrier through the upregulation of tight junction proteins. Considering the enhanced stability and reduced safety concerns of postbiotics compared to probiotics, alongside their ability to regulate allergic reactions, we suggest that postbiotics may serve as viable substitutes for probiotics in managing food allergies and potentially other diseases.

A novel processing method combining short-time ozone pretreatment with hydrolysis has been developed to reduce whey protein allergenicity. The results showed that ozone treatment altered the whey protein spatial structure, initially increasing the surface hydrophobicity index, and then decreasing due to polymer formation as the time increased. Under the optimized conditions of alkaline protease-mediated hydrolysis, a 10-second pre-exposure to ozone significantly promoted the reduction in the IgE binding capacity of whey protein without compromising the hydrolysis efficiency. Compared with whey protein, the degranulation of KU812 cells stimulated by this hydrolysate decreased by 20.54%, 17.99%, and 22.80% for IL-6, β-hexosaminidase, and histamine, respectively. In vitro simulated gastrointestinal digestion confirmed increased digestibility and reduced allergenicity. Peptidomics identification revealed that short-time ozonation exposed allergen epitopes, allowing alkaline protease to target these epitopes more effectively, particularly those associated with α-lactalbumin. These findings suggest the promising application of this processing method in mitigating the allergenicity of whey protein.

This study investigated the preventive effects of whey protein fermented with Lactobacillus gasseri IM13 (F-WP) against dexamethasone (DEX)-induced muscle atrophy. C2C12 muscle cells were treated with F-WP followed by DEX treatment. Dexamethasone treatment inhibited myotube formation and the expression of myogenic regulatory factors; however, pretreatment with F-WP attenuated DEX-induced damage. The F-WP significantly activated the phosphorylation of the IGF-1/PI3K/AKT pathway and improved muscle homeostasis suppressed by DEX. Moreover, F-WP alleviated the phosphorylation of mTOR, S6K1, and 4E-BP1 and enhanced muscle protein synthesis. Muscle-specific ubiquitin ligases and autophagy lysosomes, which were activated by the dephosphorylation of FOXO3a by DEX treatment, were significantly attenuated by F-WP pretreatment of myotubes. For peptidomic analysis, F-WP was fractionated using preparative HPLC (prep-HPLC), and the AA sequences of 11 peptides were identified using MALDI-TOF/MS/MS. In conclusion, fermentation of whey protein by the specific probiotic strain IM13 produced bioactive peptides with high antioxidant and anti-sarcopenic-sarcopenic effects, which markedly enhanced myogenesis and muscle protein synthesis while diminishing muscle protein degradation compared with intact whey protein., (The Authors. Published by Elsevier Inc. on behalf of the American Dairy Science Association®. This is an open access article under the CC BY license (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/).)

Different functional foods with bioactive nutrients are being explored for the management of NAFLD. Whey proteins are rich in bioactive peptides and are suggested to show antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. We aim to test the hypothesis that the whey protein supplementation following a high fat-high fructose (HFHF) diet would protect against liver damage, inflammation, endotoxemia and steatosis in male Wistar rats. 36 rats were randomized into four groups for 8 weeks as the HFHF diet group, HFHF diet and whey protein isolate (WPI-200mg/kg/day) group (HFHF+WPI), control (C) group, and C+WPI (200mg/kg/day) group. Rats fed with a HFHF diet had higher final body weight compared to C and C+WPI groups (p = 0.002). Thus, WPI showed no significant effects for the body weight of rats with a HFHF diet. On the other hand, the HFHF+WPI group had significantly lower abdominal circumference when compared with the HFHF group (p<0,001). Higher serum CRP levels were observed in the groups with a HFHF diet (p<0,001) and WPI supplementation showed no effects on CRP levels. Whey protein supplementation resulted with lower total liver damage score in HFHF+WPI group compared with the HFHF diet group (p<0,001). Conversely, higher liver damage scores were observed with the C+WPI group compared to C group (p<0,001). HFHF diet resulted with higher expression of TLR-4 in the liver meanwhile WPI supplementation showed no effects on liver TLR-4 expression. We observed higher colon Occludin expression in HFHF+WPI and C+WPI groups compared with HFHF and C groups (p<0,001). Our results showed that, whey protein supplementation might help improve liver damage associated with a high fat-high fructose diet and increase the expression of Occludin in the small intestine and colon., Competing Interests: The authors have declared that no competing interests exist., (Copyright: © 2024 Yiğit Ziolkowski et al. This is an open access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original author and source are credited.)

Chronic wounds represent silent epidemic affecting a large portion of the world population, especially the elders; in this context, the development of advanced bioactive dressings is imperative to accelerate wound healing process, while contrasting or preventing infections. The aim of the present work was to provide a deep characterization of the functional and biopharmaceutical properties of a sustainable thin and flexible films, composed of whey proteins alone (WPI) and added with nanostructured zinc oxide (WPZ) and intended for the management of chronic wounds. The potential of whey proteins-based films as wound dressings has been confirmed by their wettability, hydration properties, elastic behavior upon hydration, biodegradation propensity and, when added with nanostructured zinc oxide, antibacterial efficacy against both Gram-positive and Gram-negative pathogens, i.e. Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli. In-vitro experiments, performed on normal human dermal fibroblasts, confirmed film cytocompatibility, also revealing the possible role of Zn 2+ ions in promoting fibroblast proliferation. Finally, in-vivo studies on rat model confirmed film suitability to act as wound dressing, since able to ensure a regular healing process while providing effective protection from infections. In particular, both films WPI and WPZ are responsible for the formation in the wound bed of a continuous collagen layer similar to that of healthy skin., Competing Interests: Declaration of competing interest The authors declare that they have no known competing financial interests or personal relationships that could have appeared to influence the work reported in this paper., (Copyright © 2024. Published by Elsevier B.V.)

This study aimed to examine the impact of varying doses of whey protein (WP) and amylopectin/chromium complex (ACr) supplementation on muscle protein synthesis (MPS), amino acid and insulin levels, and the rapamycin (mTOR) signaling pathways in exercised rats. A total of 72 rats were randomly divided into nine groups: (1) Exercise (Ex), (2) Ex + WPI to (5) Ex + WPIV with various oral doses of whey protein (0.465, 1.55, 2.33, and 3.1 g/kg) and (6) Ex + WPI + ACr to (9) Ex + WPIV + ACr with various doses of whey protein combined with 0.155 g/kg ACr. On the day of single-dose administration, the products were given by oral gavage after exercise. To measure the protein fractional synthesis rate (FSR), a bolus dose of deuterium-labeled phenylalanine was given, and its effects were evaluated 1 h after supplementation. Rats that received 3.1 g/kg of whey protein (WP) combined with ACr exhibited the most significant increase in muscle protein synthesis (MPS) compared to the Ex group (115.7%, p < 0.0001). In comparison to rats that received the same dose of WP alone, those given the combination of WP and ACr at the same dosage showed a 14.3% increase in MPS (p < 0.0001). Furthermore, the WP (3.1 g/kg) + ACr group exhibited the highest elevation in serum insulin levels when compared to the Ex group (111.9%, p < 0.0001). Among the different groups, the WP (2.33 g/kg) + ACr group demonstrated the greatest increase in mTOR levels (224.2%, p < 0.0001). Additionally, the combination of WP (2.33 g/kg) and ACr resulted in a 169.8% increase in 4E-BP1 levels (p < 0.0001), while S6K1 levels rose by 141.2% in the WP (2.33 g/kg) + ACr group (p < 0.0001). Overall, supplementation with various doses of WP combined with ACr increased MPS and enhanced the mTOR signaling pathway compared to WP alone and the Ex group., (© 2023. The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer Science+Business Media, LLC, part of Springer Nature.)

Background: Osteogenic, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects of Whey protein and M. oleifera gel prompted us to evaluate their role alone or in combination on osseointegration in rabbits., Methods: In this study, 24 titanium implants were inserted in the femurs of six rabbits. One implant was placed without treatment, and another one was coated with a mixture of whey protein and M. oleifera gel for each side. The animals were divided into two groups of 2- and 6-week intervals and evaluated using histopathological and immunohistochemical techniques., Results: Histological evaluation revealed a significant difference between the experimental and the control groups after two weeks in osteoblast and osteocyte counts. The experimental group had mature bone development after six weeks of implantation, while the control group had a woven bone. Immunohistochemical results showed that the experimental group, compared to the control group, exhibited early positive expression of osteoblast cells at two weeks after the experiment. Based on histopathological observations, the experimental group showed a tiny area of collagenous fiber in 6th week after the implantation., Conclusion: A mixture of whey protein and M. oleifera could accelerate osseointegration and healing processes.

Bovine milk contains bioactive proteins, carbohydrates, and phospholipids with immunomodulatory properties impacting human immunity, potentially contributing to resistance to infections and allergies through diverse mechanisms. One such mechanism is the enhancing of the innate immune response to secondary pathogen-related stimuli, termed innate immune training. Although in vitro studies demonstrate that milk immunoglobulin G (IgG) can train human monocytes, evidence for in vivo immune training is limited. To explore the potential of bovine IgG for inducing innate immune training in vivo , this human study utilized an IgG-rich whey protein concentrate (WPC). Healthy male volunteers were assigned to a high dose WPC, low dose WPC, or placebo group. Blood was collected pre- and post-two weeks of WPC consumption. Peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) were isolated and stimulated with TLR ligands, evaluating IL-6 and TNF-α production by monocytes, myeloid DCs, and plasmacytoid DCs. Additionally, RNA was isolated for differential gene expression (DGE) analysis. Results indicated that the two-week WPC intervention did not influence the ex vivo response of studied cells to TLR agonists. Furthermore, PBMC gene expression patterns showed no significant differences between the placebo and high dose WPC groups. The data suggests that oral WPC ingestion did not enhance immune responses in young, healthy male participants.

Nowadays, rotaviruses remain a major health burden, especially in developing countries, and strategies complementary to vaccination are needed. In this view, dairy fractions have attracted great scientific interest, due to their high content of bioactive compounds. The objective of this study was to evaluate the antiviral activity of whey and buttermilk enriched in proteins from hyperimmune bovine colostrum (HBC) against rotavirus. The enriched fractions were spray-dried and subsequently tested for their neutralizing activity against the bovine rotavirus WC3 strain in vitro , using differentiated Caco-2/TC7 cells. The highest antirotaviral activity was observed when whey and buttermilk were enriched in purified immunoglobulin G (IgG), showing complete rotavirus neutralization at concentrations of 3 and 6 mg mL -1 for whey and buttermilk, respectively. Additionally, the use of a crude immunoglobulin fraction also gave satisfactory results. The inhibitory activities of all samples significantly decreased after the application of heat, except for the IgG-enriched buttermilk which showed a slight increase of activity following the application of short-time treatments (75 or 85 °C for 20 s). This sample also showed a significant increase of activity (13%) after the application of low-intensity high hydrostatic pressure treatment (400 MPa for 5 min). The maximum loss of bioactivity was observed at 600 MPa for 10 min (31 and 20% for whey- and buttermilk-based formulas, respectively). This study provides relevant information on the potential of whey, buttermilk, and HBC to be part of functional products as complementary strategies to combat rotavirus infections.

Different protein sources can impact gut microbiota composition and abundance, and also participate in health regulation. In this study, mice were gavaged with yeast protein (YP), soybean protein isolate (SPI), and whey protein isolate (WPI) for 28 days. Body weights showed similar patterns across different protein administration groups. The ileum in YP-supplemented mice exhibited good morphology, and tight-junction (TJ) proteins were slightly upregulated. Immunoglobulin (Ig)A, IgM, and IgG levels in the ileum of different protein groups were significantly increased ( p < 0.05). Interleukin (IL)-10 levels were significantly increased, whereas IL-6 levels were significantly reduced in the YP group when compared with the control (C) ( p < 0.05). Glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) levels in the ileum were significantly increased in the YP group ( p < 0.05). These results indicate that YP potentially improved intestinal immunity and inflammatory profiles. The relative abundances of Parabacteroides , Prevotella , and Pseudobutyrivibrio in the YP group were more enriched when compared with the C and SPI groups, and Parabacteroides was significantly upregulated when compared with the WPI group ( p < 0.05). Overall, the results indicate that YP upregulates the beneficial bacteria and improves ileal immunity and anti-inflammatory capabilities.

Eccentric muscle contractions can cause structural damage to muscle cells resulting in temporarily decreased muscle force production and soreness. Prior work indicates pasture-raised dairy products from grass-fed cows have greater anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties compared to grain-fed counterparts. However, limited research has evaluated the utility of whey protein from pasture-raised, grass-fed cows to enhance recovery compared to whey protein from non-grass-fed cows. Therefore, using a randomized, placebo-controlled design, we compared the effect of whey protein from pasture-raised, grass-fed cows (PRWP) to conventional whey protein (CWP) supplementation on indirect markers of muscle damage in response to eccentric exercise-induced muscle damage (EIMD) in resistance-trained individuals. Thirty-nine subjects (PRWP, n  = 14; CWP, n  = 12) completed an eccentric squat protocol to induce EIMD with measurements performed at 24, 48, and 72 h of recovery. Dependent variables included: delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS), urinary titin, maximal isometric voluntary contraction (MIVC), potentiated quadriceps twitch force, countermovement jump (CMJ), and barbell back squat velocity (BBSV). Between-condition comparisons did not reveal any significant differences ( p  ≤ 0.05) in markers of EIMD via DOMS, urinary titin, MIVC, potentiated quadriceps twitch force, CMJ, or BBSV. In conclusion, neither PRWP nor CWP attenuate indirect markers of muscle damage and soreness following eccentric exercise in resistance-trained individuals.

Milk fat globule epidermal growth factor 8 (MFG-E8) and whey protein have emerged as promising bionutrient supplements for enhancing skeletal muscle mass and function. In the present study, aging-related sarcopenia rat model was employed to elucidate the effects of the combined administration of MFG-E8 and whey protein on the catabolism and anabolism of gastrocnemius protein. Combined intervention led to notable enhancements in the antioxidative stress status and mitochondrial biogenesis capacity of gastrocnemius muscle fibers in the aging rats, concomitant with a significant inhibition of lipid accumulation. Moreover, the synergistic effect of MFG-E8 and whey protein was found to exert modulatory effects on key signaling pathways, including PI3K/Akt/PGC-1α pathway and MAPK/ERK signaling pathways in the gastrocnemius muscle of the aging rats. Specifically, this combined intervention was observed to promote mitochondrial biogenesis and regulate the expression of protein anabolism and catabolism-related regulators, thereby facilitating the alleviation of mitochondrial oxidative stress and enhancing biogenesis in gastrocnemius tissues. The findings of our study provide compelling evidence for the potential of MFG-E8 as a promising dietary supplement with antisarcopenic properties to ameliorate muscle protein metabolism disorders and mitigate mitochondrial-mediated myoblast apoptosis induced by oxidative stress., (© 2024, The Authors. Published by Elsevier Inc. and Fass Inc. on behalf of the American Dairy Science Association®. This is an open access article under the CC BY license (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/).)

Cancer prevalence is rising rapidly around the globe, contributing immensely to the burden on health systems, hence the search for more effective and selective treatments still remains enticing. Whey, as a natural source, has received extensive focus in recent years because of its intriguing applications to health benefits. Growing consumer appreciation of the nutraceutical effects of whey components makes them an attractive field within cancer research. Whey is a valuable source of superior-quality proteins, lactose, vitamins, and minerals that contribute to proper nutrition as well as help hamper illness and even complement certain disease-related therapy prognosis. As a result, industry leaders and dairy producers are devising new ways to valorize it. Great emphasis on cancer prevention and treatment has been given to whey protein (WP) by the scientific community. WP intake has been proven to induce anti-cancer effects in various in vitro and in vivo studies. Nutritionists and dietitians are now enormously endorsing the role of WP in the therapeutic field, notably for cancer cachexia management. However, human intervention studies with WP are in their infancy and remain to be established with different tumor entities to provide valid proof of its ability to act as a coadjuvant in cancer treatment.

Background: Aflatoxin B (AFB) induces toxicological effects on the liver and immune organs. The whey proteins can modulate the immune response during aflatoxicosis. Our work evaluates the novel polylactic acid-glycolic acid-chitosan-encapsulated bovine and camel whey proteins against AFB-induced thymic and splenic atrophy in rats., Methods and Results: Seventy adult male Wister albino rats were divided into a control healthy group (G1) and six AFB1-intoxicated groups (G2-G7). One of the following supplements: distilled water, camel whey proteins (CWP), bovine whey proteins, poly (D, L-lactide-co-glycolide) (PLGA)- chitosan-loaded with camel whey protein microparticles (CMP), PLGA-chitosan loaded with bovine whey protein microparticles (BMP), and PLGA-chitosan nanoparticles were administered as prophylactic supplements to AFB1-intoxicated groups. The AFB-treated group showed significantly higher hepatic levels of oxidative stress and lower levels of antioxidants. In the aflatoxicated group, atrophy of the splenic lymphatic nodules and disfigurement in the organisation with an apparent decrease in the thickness of the cortex in the thymus were observed, as well as a decrease in splenic and thymic CD4+T and CD8+T lymphocytes. Moreover, CXCL12 levels were downregulated, whereas tumour necrosis factor-alpha, nuclear factor kappa B, and cleaved caspase-3 levels were upregulated. CWP, BMP, and CMP supplements markedly decreased oxidative stress, inflammation, and apoptosis, as well as significantly raised CXCL12, CD4+T, and CD8+T cells., Conclusions: The CWP, BMP, and CMP supplements rescue the liver and immune tissues from the toxic effects of AFB through their antioxidant, antiapoptotic, anti-inflammatory, and chemotaxis-enhancing roles., (© 2023. The Author(s).)

Protein ingestion concurrently stimulates euglycemic glucagon and insulin secretion, a response that is particularly robust with rapidly absorbing proteins. Previously, we have shown that ingestion of repeated doses of rapidly absorbing whey protein equally stimulated endogenous glucose production (EGP) and glucose disposal (Rd), thus explaining the preservation of euglycemia. Here, we aimed to determine if a smaller single dose of whey could elicit a large enough glucagon and insulin response to stimulate glucose flux. Therefore, in normoglycemic young adult males ( n = 10; age ∼26; BMI ∼25), using [6,6- 2 H 2 ] glucose tracing and quantitative targeted metabolite profiling, we determined the metabolic response to a single 25 g "standard" dose of whey protein. Whey protein ingestion did not alter glycemia, but increased circulating glucagon (peak 4-fold basal), insulin (peak 6-fold basal), amino acids, and urea while also reducing free fatty acid (FFA) and glycerol concentrations. Interestingly, the postprandial insulin response was driven by both a stimulation of insulin secretion and marked reduction in hepatic insulin clearance. Whey protein ingestion resulted in a modest stimulation of EGP and Rd, both peaking at ∼20% above baseline 1 h after protein ingestion. These findings demonstrate that the ingestion of a single standard serving of whey protein can induce a euglycemic glucagon and insulin response that stimulates glucose flux. We speculate on a theory that could potentially explain how glucagon and insulin synergistically provide hardwired control of nitrogen and glucose homeostasis. NEW & NOTEWORTHY Protein ingestion concurrently stimulates glucagon and insulin secretion. Here we show that in normoglycemic males, ingestion of a single "standard" 25 g serving of rapidly absorbing whey protein drives a sufficiently large glucagon and insulin response, such that it simultaneously increases endogenous glucose production and glucose disposal. We speculate on a novel theory that could potentially explain how the antagonistic/synergistic actions of glucagon and insulin simultaneously provide tight control of glucose and nitrogen homeostasis.

This work was conducted to synthesize whey protein nanoparticles (WPNPs) for the coating of zinc citrate (Zn CITR) at three levels and to study their protective role against CCl 4 -induced kidney damage and inflammatory gene expression disorder in rats. Seventy male Sprague-Dawley rats were divided into seven groups and treated orally for 4 weeks as follows; the control group, the group treated twice a week with CCl 4 (5 mL/kg b.w), the groups received CCl 4 plus WPNPs (300 mg/kg b.w); the group received 50 mg/kg b.w of Zn CITR or the three formulas of Zn CITR-WPNPs at low, medium and high doses (LD, MD, and HD). Blood and kidney samples were collected for different assays and histological analyses. The fabricated particles were semispherical, with an average size of 160 ± 2.7, 180 ± 3.1, and 200 ± 2.6 nm and ζ potential of -126, -93, and -84 mV for ZN CITR-WPNPs (LD), Zn CITR-WPNPs (MD), and ZN CITR-WPNPs (HD), respectively. CCl 4 significantly increased (p ≤ 0.05) kidney function indices, oxidative stress markers, messenger RNA expression of transforming growth factor-β1, interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-10, IL-6, inducible nitric oxide synthase, and tumor necrosis factor-α and significantly decreased (p ≤ 0.05) renal superoxide dismutase, catalase, and glutathione peroxidase along with the histological changes in the kidney tissues. WPNPs, Zn CITR, and Zn CITR loaded WPNPS showed a protective effect against these complications and Zn CITR-WPNPs (LD) was more effective. WPNPs can be used effectively for coating Zn CITR at a level of 7 mg/g WPNPs to be used as a supplement for the protection of the kidney against different toxicants to enhance immunity and avoid harm of excess Zn., (© 2023 Wiley Periodicals LLC.)

Background: Protein supplements are important to maintain optimum health and physical performance, particularly in athletes and active individuals to repair and rebuild their skeletal muscles and connective tissues. Soy protein (SP) has gained popularity in recent years as an alternative to animal proteins., Objectives: This systematic review evaluates the evidence from randomised controlled clinical trials of the effects of SP supplementation in active individuals and athletes in terms of muscle adaptations, metabolic and antioxidant status, hormonal response and exercise performance. It also explores the differences in SP supplementation effects in comparison to whey protein., Methods: A systematic search was conducted in PubMed, Embase and Web of Science, as well as a manual search in Google Scholar and EBSCO, on 27 June 2023. Randomised controlled trials that evaluated the applications of SPs supplementation on sports and athletic-related outcomes that are linked with exercise performance, adaptations and biomarkers in athletes and physically active adolescents and young adults (14 to 39 years old) were included, otherwise, studies were excluded. The risk of bias was assessed according to Cochrane's revised risk of bias tool., Results: A total of 19 eligible original research articles were included that investigated the effect of SP supplementation on muscle adaptations (n = 9), metabolic and antioxidant status (n = 6), hormonal response (n = 6) and exercise performance (n = 6). Some studies investigated more than one effect. SP was found to provide identical increases in lean mass compared to whey in some studies. SP consumption promoted the reduction of exercise-induced metabolic/blood circulating biomarkers such as triglycerides, uric acid and lactate. Better antioxidant capacity against oxidative stress has been seen with respect to whey protein in long-term studies. Some studies reported testosterone and cortisol fluctuations related to SP; however, more research is required. All studies on SP and endurance performance suggested the potential beneficial effects of SP supplementation (10-53.3 g) on exercise performance by improving high-intensity and high-speed running performance, enhancing maximal cardiac output, delaying fatigue and improving isometric muscle strength, improving endurance in recreational cyclists, increasing running velocity and decreasing accumulated lactate levels; however, studies determining the efficacy of soy protein on VO 2 max provided conflicted results., Conclusion: It is possible to recommend SP to athletes and active individuals in place of conventional protein supplements by assessing their dosage and effectiveness in relation to different types of training. SP may enhance lean mass compared with other protein sources, enhance the antioxidant status, and reduce oxidative stress. SP supplementation had an inconsistent effect on testosterone and cortisol levels. SP supplementation may be beneficial, especially after muscle damage, high-intensity/high-speed or repeated bouts of strenuous exercise., (© 2023. The Author(s).)

Whey protein isolate (WPI) consists of an array of proteins and peptides obtained as a byproduct of the cheesemaking process. Research suggests that WPI, along with its peptides such as glycomacropeptide (GMP), possesses immunomodulatory properties. These properties hold potential for alleviating the adverse effects of inflammatory conditions such as inflammatory bowel disease. Although promising, the immunoregulatory properties of the digested forms of WPI and GMP-those most likely to interact with the gut immune system-remain under-investigated. To address this knowledge gap, the current study examined the effects of in vitro-digested WPI and GMP, in vivo-digested WPI, and undigested WPI and GMP on the secretion of pro-inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α and IL-1β) in lipopolysaccharide-stimulated macrophage-like cells. Our results indicate that digested WPI and GMP reduced the expression of TNF-α and IL-1β, two pro-inflammatory cytokines. Whole WPI had no effect on TNF-α but reduced IL-1β levels. In contrast, in vivo-digested WPI reduced TNF-α but increased IL-1β. Undigested GMP, on the other hand, increased the secretion of both cytokines. These results demonstrate that digestion greatly modifies the effects of WPI and GMP on macrophages and suggest that digested WPI and GMP could help mitigate gastrointestinal inflammation. Further clinical studies are necessary to determine the biological relevance of WPI and GMP digestion products within the gut and their capacity to influence gut inflammation.

Methotrexate (MTX) is a cytotoxic immunosuppressant that is widely used in the treatment of tumours, rheumatoid arthritis and psoriasis. This study aims to evaluate the effects of whey proteins on MTX-induced liver and kidney damage by focusing on oxidant–antioxidant systems and eating habits. The study was conducted in four groups of thirty Sprague–Dawley rats (control, control + whey protein concentrate (WPC), MTX, MTX + WPC). A single dose of 20 mg/kg MTX was administered intraperitoneally to the MTX groups. Control and MTX groups were given 2 g/kg WPC by oral gavage every day for 10 d. At the end of day 10, blood samples were drawn and liver and kidney tissues were removed. MTX administration increased the lipid peroxidation level and decreased glutathione level, superoxide dismutase and glutathione-S-transferase activities in the liver and kidney. Administration of WPC significantly reduced the damage caused by MTX in the liver and kidney. While a decrease in serum urea level and an increase in serum creatinine level were detected in the MTX group, WPC administration reversed these results up to control group levels. Administration of WPC to the MTX group significantly reversed the histopathological damage scores of the liver and kidney. WPC administration ameliorated the MTX-induced oxidative damage in the liver and kidney tissues due to its antioxidant properties. Liver and kidney damage can be prevented by using whey proteins as a nutraceutical in MTX therapy. In conclusion, whey proteins demonstrated a protective effect against MTX-induced liver and kidney damage.

Introduction: Separately, both exercise and protein ingestion have been shown to alter the blood and urine metabolome. This study goes a step further and examines changes in the metabolome derived from blood, urine and muscle tissue extracts in response to resistance exercise combined with ingestion of three different protein sources., Methods: In an acute parallel study, 52 young males performed one-legged resistance exercise (leg extension, 4 × 10 repetitions at 10 repetition maximum) followed by ingestion of either cricket (insect), pea or whey protein (0.25 g protein/kg fat free mass). Blood and muscle tissue were collected at baseline and three hours after protein ingestion. Urine was collected at baseline and four hours after protein ingestion. Mixed-effects analyses were applied to examine the effect of the time (baseline vs. post), protein (cricket, pea, whey), and time x protein interaction., Results: Nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR)-based metabolomics resulted in the annotation and quantification of 25 metabolites in blood, 35 in urine and 21 in muscle tissue. Changes in the muscle metabolome after combined exercise and protein intake indicated effects related to the protein source ingested. Muscle concentrations of leucine, methionine, glutamate and myo-inositol were higher after intake of whey protein compared to both cricket and pea protein. The blood metabolome revealed changes in a more ketogenic direction three hours after exercise reflecting that the trial was conducted after overnight fasting. Urinary concentration of trimethylamine N-oxide was significantly higher after ingestion of cricket than pea and whey protein., Conclusion: The blood, urine and muscle metabolome showed different and supplementary responses to exercise and ingestion of the different protein sources, and in synergy the summarized results provided a more complete picture of the metabolic state of the body., (© 2023. The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer Science+Business Media, LLC, part of Springer Nature.)

Whey protein-derived carbon nanodots (WCND) were synthesized using the microwave irradiation method, and its amine-rich surface functionality was crosslinked with covalently bound Iodine functionalized 2,5-dimethoxy-2,5-dihydrofuran (DHFI) to produce WCND-DHFI. The physicochemical characterization of both WCND and WCND-DHFI was performed and compared to comprehend the consequence of iodination on the characteristics of WCND. The suitability of CND in biological environments was evaluated through in vitro cytocompatibility and Chorioallantoic Membrane (CAM) assay, as well as a hemocompatibility study. WCND-DHFI has shown enhanced cell viability against WCND. Further, the antibacterial properties of both CNDs were studied against both gram-positive and gram-negative bacterial strains, representing an enhancement in antibacterial activity after DHFI crosslinking. WCND-DHFI has depicted a stable and prominent bacteriostatic activity for up to 6 h for both strains of bacteria. WCND-DHFI has denoted a 99.996% and 99.999% loss of bacterial viability for gram-positive and negative strains, respectively. Novel surface functionalization portrays an improvement in antibacterial activity. Transmission and scanning electron microscopy represent the cell wall rupturing by the WCND-DHFI, resulting in bacterial death. The ROS-mediated bacteriostatic mechanism of WCND-DHFI has been explored through assessing lipid peroxidation and protein oxidation assay. Moreover, the oxidative damage of DNA also has been explored. WCND-DHFI is performing as a promising cytocompatible and hemocompatible material for antibacterial applications., Competing Interests: Declaration of Competing Interest The authors declare that they have no known competing financial interests or personal relationships that could have appeared to influence the work reported in this paper., (Copyright © 2023 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.)

Previous studies showed that collagen peptide supplementation along with resistance exercise enhance muscular recovery and function. Yet, the efficacy of collagen peptide supplementation in addition to standard nutritional practices in athletes remains unclear. Therefore, the objective of the study was to compare the effects of combined collagen peptide (20 g) and whey protein (25 g) supplementation with a similar daily protein dose (45 g) of whey protein alone on indices of muscle damage and recovery of muscular performance during eccentric exercise training. Young fit males participated in a 3-week training period involving unilateral eccentric exercises for the knee extensors. According to a double-blind, randomized, parallel-group design, before and after training, they received either whey protein (n = 11) or whey protein + collagen peptides (n = 11). Forty-eight hours after the first training session, maximal voluntary isometric and dynamic contraction of the knee extensors were transiently impaired by ∼10% (Ptime < .001) in whey protein and whey protein + collagen peptides, while creatine kinase levels were doubled in both groups (Ptime < .01). Furthermore, the training intervention improved countermovement jump performance and maximal voluntary dynamic contraction by respectively 8% and 10% (Ptime < .01) and increased serum procollagen type 1N-terminal peptide concentration by 10% (Ptime < .01). However, no differences were found for any of the outcomes between whey and whey protein + collagen peptides. In conclusion, substituting a portion of whey protein for collagen peptide, within a similar total protein dose, improved neither indices of eccentric muscle damage nor functional outcomes during eccentric training.

Modifying the food structure allows a nutrient to be delivered differently, which can modify not only its digestion process but also its subsequent metabolism. In this study, rats received 3 g of omelette daily containing docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) as crude oil or previously encapsulated with whey proteins, whereas a control group received a DHA-free omelette. The results showed that DHA encapsulation markedly induced a different feeding behaviour so animals ate more and grew faster. Then, after four weeks, endocannabinoids and other N -acyl ethanolamides were quantified in plasma, brain, and heart. DHA supplementation strongly reduced endocannabinoid derivatives from omega-6 fatty acids. However, DHA encapsulation had no particular effect, other than a great increase in the content of DHA-derived docosahexaenoyl ethanolamide in the heart. While DHA supplementation has indeed shown an effect on cannabinoid profiles, its physiological effect appears to be mediated more through more efficient digestion of DHA oil droplets in the case of DHA encapsulation. Thus, the greater release of DHA and other dietary cannabinoids present may have activated the cannabinoid system differently, possibly more locally along the gastrointestinal tract. However, further studies are needed to evaluate the synergy between DHA encapsulation, fasting, hormones regulating food intake, and animal growth.