Donkey whey protein and peptides regulate gut microbiota community and physiological functions of D-galactose-induced aging mice

Characterisation and comparison of enzymatically prepared donkey milk whey protein hydrolysates

This study evaluated the structural characteristics, processing properties, and antioxidant properties of hydrolysates prepared from donkey milk (DM) whey protein using different proteases (Alcalase, Neutrase, papain, and Flavourzyme). The results showed that enzymatic hydrolysis significantly increased hydrolysate solubility and reduced average particle size compared to those of DM whey protein. Neutrase and Flavourzyme hydrolysates exhibited higher degrees of hydrolysis (DH), along with elevated emulsification properties and surface hydrophobicity. The choice of protease influenced secondary and tertiary protein structures and amino acid composition. Enzymatic hydrolysis led to decreased molecular weight of DM whey proteins. Moreover, all hydrolysates exhibited higher fluorescence intensity at λmax compared to DM whey protein, implying distinct properties due to the varied impacts of the four proteases on DM whey protein structure. The preparation of hydrolysates from DM whey proteins using proteases contributes to the development of integrated-value DM products.

Investigating the Health Implications of Whey Protein Consumption: A Narrative Review of Risks, Adverse Effects, and Associated Health Issues

This narrative review critically examines the current research on the health implications of whey protein (WP) supplementation, with a focus on potential risks and adverse effects. WP, commonly consumed for muscle building and weight loss, has been associated with various health concerns. Our comprehensive analysis involved a thorough search of multiple databases, resulting in the inclusion of 21 preclinical and human studies that collectively offer a detailed overview of WP's health impacts. The review reveals significant findings, such as WP's potential link to liver and kidney damage, alterations in gut microbiota, increased acne incidence, impacts on bone mass, and emotional and behavioural changes. These findings underscore the complexity of WP's effects on human health, indicating both beneficial and detrimental outcomes in relation to different posologies in a variety of settings. Our study suggests caution for the protein intake in situations of hepatic and renal compromised functions, as well as in acne susceptibility, while possible beneficial effects can be achieved for the intestinal microbiota, humoral and behavioural level, and finally bone and muscle mass in elderly. We emphasizes the importance of balanced WP consumption and call for more in-depth research to understand its long-term health effects. Health professionals and individuals considering WP supplementation should be aware of these potential risks and approach its use with informed caution.