Milk biologically active components as nutraceuticals: review

Alfalfa xenomiR-162 targets G protein subunit gamma 11 to regulate milk protein synthesis in bovine mammary epithelial cells

OBJECTIVE

It was shown that microRNAs (miRNAs) play an important role in milk protein synthesis. However, the post-transcriptional regulation of casein expression by exogenous miRNA (xeno-miRNAs) in ruminants remains unclear. This study explores the regulatory roles of alfalfa xeno-miR162 on casein synthesis in bovine mammary epithelial cells (bMECs).

METHODS

The effects of alfalfa xenomiR-162 and G protein subunit gamma 11 (GNG11) on proliferation and milk protein metabolism of bMECs were detected by 5-Ethynyl-2'-Deoxyuridine (EdU) staining, flow cytometry, cell counting kit-8 (CCK-8), enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR), and Western blot. Dual-luciferase reporter assay was used to verify the targeting relationship between GNG11 and xenomiR-162.

RESULTS

Results showed that over-expression of xenomiR-162 inhibited cell proliferation but promoted apoptosis, which also up-regulated the expression of several casein coding genes, including CSN1S1, CSN1S2, and CSN3, while decreasing the expression of CSN2. Furthermore, the targeting relationship between GNG11 and xenomiR-162 was determined, and it was confirmed that GNG11 silencing also inhibited cell proliferation but promoted apoptosis and reduced the expression of casein coding genes and genes related to the mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) pathway.

CONCLUSION

Alfalfa xenomiR-162 appears to regulate bMECs proliferation and milk protein synthesis via GNG11 in the mTOR pathway, suggesting that this xeno-miRNA could be harnessed to modulate CSN3 expression in dairy cows, and increase κ-casein contents in milk.

Milk Antiviral Proteins and Derived Peptides against Zoonoses

Milk is renowned for its nutritional richness but also serves as a remarkable reservoir of bioactive compounds, particularly milk proteins and their derived peptides. Recent studies have showcased several robust antiviral activities of these proteins, evidencing promising potential within zoonotic viral diseases. While several publications focus on milk's bioactivities, antiviral peptides remain largely neglected in reviews. This knowledge is critical for identifying novel research directions and analyzing potential nutraceuticals within the One Health context. Our review aims to gather the existing scientific information on milk-derived antiviral proteins and peptides against several zoonotic viral diseases, and their possible mechanisms. Overall, in-depth research has increasingly revealed them as a promising and novel strategy against viruses, principally for those constituting a plausible pandemic threat. The underlying mechanisms of the bioactivity of milk's proteins include inhibiting viral entry and attachment to the host cells, blocking replication, or even viral inactivation via peptide-membrane interactions. Their marked versatility and effectiveness stand out compared to other antiviral peptides and can support future research and development in the post-COVID-19 era. Overall, our review helps to emphasize the importance of potentially effective milk-derived peptides, and their significance for veterinary and human medicines, along with the pharmaceutical, nutraceutical, and dairy industry.

Synergistic Effect of Retinoic Acid and Lactoferrin in the Maintenance of Gut Homeostasis

Lactoferrin (LF) is a glycoprotein that binds to iron ions (Fe2+) and other metallic ions, such as Mg2+, Zn2+, and Cu2+, and has antibacterial and immunomodulatory properties. The antibacterial properties of LF are due to its ability to sequester iron. The immunomodulatory capability of LF promotes homeostasis in the enteric environment, acting directly on the beneficial microbiota. LF can modulate antigen-presenting cell (APC) biology, including migration and cell activation. Nonetheless, some gut microbiota strains produce toxic metabolites, and APCs are responsible for initiating the process that inhibits the inflammatory response against them. Thus, eliminating harmful strains lowers the risk of inducing chronic inflammation, and consequently, metabolic disease, which can progress to type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). LF and retinoic acid (RA) exhibit immunomodulatory properties such as decreasing cytokine production, thus modifying the inflammatory response. Their activities have been observed both in vitro and in vivo. The combined, simultaneous effect of these molecules has not been studied; however, the synergistic effect of LF and RA may be employed for enhancing the secretion of humoral factors, such as IgA. We speculate that the combination of LF and RA could be a potential prophylactic alternative for the treatment of metabolic dysregulations such as T2DM. The present review focuses on the importance of a healthy diet for a balanced gut and describes how probiotics and prebiotics with immunomodulatory activity as well as inductors of differentiation and cell proliferation could be acquired directly from the diet or indirectly through the oral administration of formulations aimed to maintain gut health or restore a eubiotic state in an intestinal environment that has been dysregulated by external factors such as stress and a high-fat diet.

Milk Casein Inhibits Effect of Black Tea Galloylated Theaflavins to Inactivate SARS-CoV-2 In Vitro

Continuing caution is required against the potential emergence of SARS-CoV-2 novel mutants that could pose the next global health and socioeconomical threats. If virus in saliva can be inactivated by a beverage, such a beverage may be useful because the saliva of infected persons is the major origin of droplets and aerosols that mediate human-to-human viral transmission. We previously reported that SARS-CoV-2 was significantly inactivated by treatment in vitro with tea including green tea and black tea. Catechins and its derived compounds galloylated theaflavins (gTFs) bound to the receptor-binding domain (RBD) of the S-protein and blocked interaction between RBD and ACE2. Black tea is often consumed with sugar, milk, lemon juice, etc., and it remains unclarified whether these ingredients may influence the anti-SARS-CoV-2 effect of black tea. Here, we examined the effect of black tea on Omicron subvariants in the presence of these ingredients. The infectivity of Omicron subvariants was decreased to 1/100 or lower after treatment with black tea for 10 s. One or two teaspoons of milk (4~8 mL) completely blocked the anti-viral effect of a cup of tea (125 mL), whereas an addition of sugar or lemon juice failed to do so. The suppressive effect was dose-dependently exerted by milk casein but not whey proteins. gTFs were coprecipitated with casein after acidification of milk-supplemented black tea, strongly suggesting the binding of gTFs to casein. The present study demonstrates for the first time that an addition of milk cancelled the anti-SARS-CoV-2 effect of black tea due to binding of casein to gTFs.

Effect of Packaging and Salt Content and Type on Antioxidant and ACE-Inhibitory Activities in Requeson Cheese

Requeson cheese is obtained from whey proteins. The production of this cheese is the most economical way to recover and concentrate whey proteins, which is why it is frequently made in some Latin American countries. Four requeson cheese treatments were prepared with different concentrations and combinations of salts (sodium chloride and/or potassium chloride) and were conventionally or vacuum packed. Proteolysis, peptide concentration, angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitory and antioxidant (DPPH and ABTS) activities were evaluated over time (one, seven and fourteen days). Requeson cheese presented antioxidant and ACE inhibitory activities, however, these values vary depending on salt addition, type of packaging and time of storage. The highest values of antioxidant activity (ABTS) were found in cheese added with 1.5% NaCl and 1.5% (NaCl/KCl, 1:1). Cheese without added salt and vacuum packed presented the highest ACE inhibition percentage at day seven. Therefore, it can be concluded that requeson cheese elaborated exclusively of sweet whey, presents antioxidant and ACE inhibition activity. However, for a cheese with ACE inhibitory capacity, it is recommended not to add salts or add at 1% (NaCl) and vacuum pack it. Additionally, for a cheese with antioxidant activity, it is recommended to add salt at 1.5% either NaCl or (1:1) NaCl/KCl and pack it either in a polyethylene bag or vacuum. In conclusion, requeson cheese elaborate with 100% sweet whey is a dairy product with antioxidant and ACE inhibition activity, being low in salt and fat.

An Updated Review of Bioactive Peptides from Mushrooms in a Well-Defined Molecular Weight Range

Here, we report the current status of the bioactive peptides isolated and characterized from mushrooms during the last 20 years, considering ‘peptide’ a succession from to 2 to 100 amino acid residues. According to this accepted biochemical definition, we adopt ~10 kDa as the upper limit of molecular weight for a peptide. In light of this, a careful revision of data reported in the literature was carried out. The search revealed that in the works describing the characterization of bioactive peptides from mushrooms, not all the peptides have been correctly classified according to their molecular weight, considering that some fungal proteins (>10 kDa MW) have been improperly classified as ‘peptides’. Moreover, the biological action of each of these peptides, the principles of their isolation as well as the source/mushroom species were summarized. Finally, this review highlighted that these peptides possess antihypertensive, antifungal, antibiotic and antimicrobial, anticancer, antiviral, antioxidant and ACE inhibitory properties.

Analytical Characterization of the Widely Consumed Commercialized Fermented Beverages from Russia (Kefir and Ryazhenka) and South Africa (Amasi and Mahewu): Potential Functional Properties and Profiles of Volatile Organic Compounds

In this study, four commercialized indigenous fermented beverages most highly consumed in Russia (kefir and ryazhenka) and South Africa (amasi and mahewu) were analyzed for their potential health-promoting properties and flavor-forming volatile organic compounds (VOC). The analysis of antioxidant capacity demonstrated superiority of dairy-based beverages (kefir, ryazhenka and amasi) over the corn-based mahewu; however, mahewu outperformed dairy-based beverages in terms of its potential antihypertensive effect (i.e., the ability to inhibit angiotensin I converting enzyme). The fatty acid (FA) content of kefir and ryazhenka were more diverse compared to that of amasi, but included a lesser amount of branched chain FA. In terms of calculated FA nutritional indices (e.g., indices of atherogenicity and thrombogenicity), kefir and ryazhenka performed similarly and significantly better than amasi. The agreement between beverages theoretical flavor profiles, which was obtained based on the flavors of individual VOC, and consumers’ flavor perception allow hypothesizing about the contribution of detected VOC to the overall products’ flavor. The obtained data expand current knowledge regarding traditional fermented beverages and their values in terms of national dietary recommendations. Additionally, reported VOC profiles will promote the inclusion of traditional fermented beverages into the rations based on the flavor pairing concept (which is controversial but widely applied).

Nutritional and Functional Properties of Colostrum in Puppies and Kittens

Simple Summary

The post-natal period is a crucial time for all animal species. During the course of their first two weeks of life, puppies and kittens face several risks to their health due to their scarce energy storage and weak immune system. Colostrum is the first production of the mammary glands that plays a pivotal role for puppies and kittens. Colostrum is an important source of immunoglobulins and key nutrients such as lipids and carbohydrates, which are fundamental for the health of newborns. Puppies and kittens must ingest a sufficient amount of colostrum within a few hours of birth to ensure their survival. On the other hand, there are some particular compounds that are not strictly essential, but their presence may play an important role in nutrition and health. As there are no recent studies on companion animals, we have reported published articles describing animal studies in different species to review the nutrition of newborn mammals, with particular emphasis on companion animals.

Abstract

The present review aims toward a better understanding of the nutrition of newborn puppies and kittens. The post-natal period is very sensitive in dogs and cats, as in other animal species. During the first two weeks of life, puppies and kittens are at high risk of dehydration, hypothermia, and hypoglycemia, as well as infectious diseases as they start to acquire the physiological functions of the adult. Neonatal hepatic glycogen storage is low, and newborns depend on colostrum intake to survive. Colostrum provides immunoglobulins and other important substances such as lipids and carbohydrates. Immunoglobulins are central to the immunological link that occurs when the mother transfers passive immunity. The mechanism of transfer varies among mammalian species, but in this review, we focused our attention on dogs and cats. Furthermore, there are components of colostrum which, although their presence is not absolutely necessary, play an important role in nutrition. These components have received considerable interest because of their presumed safety and potential nutritional and therapeutic effects both in humans and animals; however, unfortunately, there are few recent studies in companion animals. Here, we have gathered the published articles that describe studies involving different species of animals, emphasizing companion animals. In particular, the purpose of this narrative of the nutritional and functional proprieties of queens’ and bitches’ colostrum.

Structure and biological activities of glycoproteins and their metabolites in maintaining intestinal health

Glycoproteins formed by covalent links between oligosaccharide and polypeptides are abundant in various food sources. They are less sensitivity to gastrointestinal enzymes, and hence many of them undergo fermentation in the colon by microorganisms. Therefore, the confer various health benefits on the intestinal ecosystem. However, the current understanding of the effect of glycoproteins on intestinal microorganisms and gut health is limited. This is probably due to their heterogeneous structures and complex metabolic programming patterns. The structure and biological activities of glycoproteins and their microbial metabolites were summarized in this review. The metabolic pathways activated by intestinal bacteria were then discussed in relation to their potential benefits on gut health. Food-derived glycoproteins and their metabolites improve gut health by regulating the intestinal bacteria and improving intestinal barrier function, thereby amplifying immune response. The data reviewed here show that food-derived glycoproteins are promising candidates for preventing various gastrointestinal diseases. Further studies should explore the interaction mechanisms between intestinal microorganisms and host metabolites.

SNPs in Mammary Gland Epithelial Cells Unraveling Potential Difference in Milk Production Between Jersey and Kashmiri Cattle Using RNA Sequencing

Deep RNA sequencing experiment was employed to detect putative single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNP) in mammary epithelial cells between two diverse cattle breeds (Jersey and Kashmiri) to understand the variations in the coding regions that reflect differences in milk production traits. The low milk-producing Kashmiri cattle are being replaced by crossbreeding practices with Jersey cattle with the aim of improving milk production. However, crossbred animals are prone to infections and various other diseases resulting in unsustainable milk production. In this study, we tend to identify high-impact SNPs from Jersey and Kashmiri cows (utilizing RNA-Seq data) to delineate key pathways mediating milk production traits in both breeds. A total of 607 (442 SNPs and 169 INDELs) and 684 (464 SNPs and 220 INDELs) high-impact variants were found specific to Jersey and Kashmir cattle, respectively. Based on our results, we conclude that in Jersey cattle, genes with high-impact SNPs were enriched in nucleotide excision repair pathway, ABC transporter, and metabolic pathways like glycerolipid metabolism, pyrimidine metabolism, and amino acid synthesis (glycine, serine, and threonine). Whereas, in Kashmiri cattle, the most enriched pathways include endocytosis pathway, innate immunity pathway, antigen processing pathway, insulin resistance pathway, and signaling pathways like TGF beta and AMPK which could be a possible defense mechanism against mammary gland infections. A varied set of SNPs in both breeds, suggests a clear differentiation at the genomic level; further analysis of high-impact SNPs are required to delineate their effect on these pathways.

Dairy-Derived and Egg White Proteins in Enhancing Immune System Against COVID-19

Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is a global health challenge, caused by the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) triggers a plethora of respiratory disturbances and even multiple organs failure that can be fatal. Nutritional intervention is one of the key components toward to a proper management of COVID-19 patients, especially in those requiring medication, and should thus be considered the first-line treatment. Immuno-modulation and -stimulation are currently being explored in COVID-19 management and are gaining interest by food and pharmaceutical industries. Various dietary combinations, bioactive components, nutrients and fortified foods have been reported to modulate inflammation during disease progression. Dietary combinations of dairy-derived products and eggs are gaining an increasing attention given the huge immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory properties attributed to some of their chemical constituents. Eggs are complex dietary components containing many essential nutrients and bioactive compounds as well as a high-quality proteins. Similarly, yogurts can replenish beneficial bacteria and contains macronutrients capable of stimulating immunity by enhancing cell immunity, reducing oxidative stress, neutralizing inflammation and regulating the intestinal barriers and gut microbiome. Thus, this review highlights the impact of nutritional intervention on COVID-19 management, focusing on the immunomodulatory and inflammatory effects of immune-enhancing nutrients.

Cow's Milk Protein Allergy as a Model of Food Allergies

Cow's milk allergy (CMA) is one of the most common food allergies in infants, and its prevalence has increased over recent years. In the present paper, we focus on CMA as a model of food allergies in children. Understanding the diagnostic features of CMA is essential in order to manage patients with this disorder, guide the use of an elimination diet, and find the best moment to start an oral food challenge (OFC) and liberalize the diet. To date, no shared tolerance markers for the diagnosis of food allergy have been identified, and OFC remains the gold standard. Recently, oral immunotherapy (OIT) has emerged as a new therapeutic strategy and has changed the natural history of CMA. Before this, patients had to strictly avoid the food allergen, resulting in a decline in quality of life and subsequent nutritional, social, and psychological impairments. Thanks to the introduction of OIT, the passive approach involving rigid exclusion has changed to a proactive one. Both the heterogeneity in the diagnostic process among the studies and the variability of OIT data limit the comprehension of the real epidemiology of CMA, and, consequentially, its natural history. Therefore, well-planned randomized controlled trials are needed to standardize CMA diagnosis, prevention, and treatment strategies.

Invited review: A 2020 perspective on pasture-based dairy systems and products

Grazing pasture is the basis for dairy production systems in regions with temperate climates, such as in Ireland, New Zealand, parts of Australia, the United States, and Europe. Milk and dairy products from cows on pasture-based farms predominantly consuming fresh grazed grass (typically classified as "grass-fed" milk) have been previously shown to possess a different nutrient profile, with potential nutritional benefits, compared with conventional milk derived from total mixed ration. Moreover, pasture-based production systems are considered more environmentally and animal welfare friendly by consumers. As such, there is significant potential for market capitalization on grass-fed dairy products. As competition in this space increases, the regulations of what constitutes as grass-fed vary between different regions of the world. With this in mind, there is a need for clear and independently accredited grass-fed standards, defining the grass-fed criteria for labeling of products as such, subsequently increasing the clarity and confidence for the consumer. This review outlines the numerous effects of pasture production systems on dairy product composition, nutritional profile, and sustainability, and highlights potential future methods for authentication.

Supplementation of Bovine Colostrum in Inflammatory Bowel Disease: Benefits and Contraindications

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a group of chronic relapsing disorders whose etiology has not been fully explained. Therefore, available therapeutic approaches for IBD patients are still insufficient. Current treatment strategies are targeted to immune system dysfunctions, often associated with alternations in the microbiota, which contribute to the development of chronic intestinal inflammation. Therapeutics include anti-inflammatory drugs such as aminosalicylates and corticosteroids, immunosuppressive agents, antibiotics, and biological agents such as infliximab and vedolizumab. Auxiliary therapies involve a balanced and personalized diet, healthy lifestyle, avoiding stress, as well as dietary supplements. In this review, we discuss the use of bovine colostrum (BC) as a therapeutic agent, including its advantages and contraindications. We summarize our knowledge on well-researched BC constituents and their effects on the gastrointestinal tract as evidenced in in vitro and in vivo studies.

The Combined Effects of Milk Intake and Physical Activity on Bone Mineral Density in Korean Adolescents

The purpose of this study was to examine the combined effects of milk intake and physical activity on bone mineral density in adolescents. This study was conducted using data from the 2009–2011 Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (KNHANES), which provided measurements of bone mineral density (BMD) in addition to basic health-related data. This study included 1061 adolescents aged 13 to 18 years (557 males and 504 females) whose data on milk intake and participation time in moderate to vigorous physical activity were available. BMD was measured by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA). Milk intake was assessed using the 24-h recall method, and the levels of physical activity were examined using a questionnaire. The physical activity questions of 2009–2011 KNHANES were based on the Korean version of the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ) short form. The subjects were classified into four groups according to milk intake and physical activity level: no milk intake + low-level physical activity group (M_noP_low), no milk intake + high-level physical activity group (M_noP_high), milk intake + low-level physical activity group (M_yesP_low), and milk intake + high-level physical activity group (M_yesP_high). The results of partial correlation controlling for age, body mass index (BMI), and energy intake showed that the BMD variables were associated significantly with physical activity in both males and females. Among males, the M_noP_low group had the lowest BMD in all BMD variables, showing a significant difference from the high-level physical activity groups (M_noP_high, M_yesP_high) by multiple logistic regression analysis. Among females, the M_yesP_high group showed a significantly higher lumbar BMD value than the other groups. The M_noP_low group had approximately 0.3 to 0.5 times lower odds ratio for median or higher BMD values, compared to M_yesP_high group. These results show that milk intake and physical activity have a combined effect on BMD, and suggest that to achieve healthy bone growth, it is important to encourage both moderate to vigorous physical activity and milk intake during adolescence.

Development of Antioxidant and Antihypertensive Properties during Growth of Lactobacillus helveticus, Lactobacillus rhamnosus and Lactobacillus reuteri on Cow's Milk: Fermentation and Peptidomics Study

Bioactive peptides derived from milk proteins are an active research area. Exhibiting numerous positive physiological effects on digestive, cardiovascular, immune and nervous systems, these peptides thought to be one of the most promising ingredients for functional food. Generally, these peptides are inactive within the parent proteins and can be liberated during milk fermentation by the specific proteolytic systems of various Lactobacillus spp. Here we present the study of milk fermentation by Lactobacillus helveticus NK1, Lactobacillus rhamnosus F and Lactobacillus reuteri LR1 strains. It was demonstrated that the antioxidant activity of the milk fermented by these strains concomitantly increased with the strains’ proteolytic activity. For the angiotensin I-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitory activity, the same tendency was not observed. Although the proteolytic activity of L. helveticus NK1 was two times higher than that of L. rhamnosus F, the milk fermented by these strains showed comparable ACE inhibition. The analysis of the peptide profiles of the fermented milk samples allowed us to hypothesize that some previously unreported peptides can be produced by L. rhamnosus F. In addition, it was demonstrated that these potential ACE-inhibiting peptides originated from the C-terminus of α_S2-casein.

Whey Proteins and Its Derivatives: Bioactivity, Functionality, and Current Applications

With the increased consumer demand for nutritional foods, it is important to develop value-added products, which will not only catch the attention of a wider consumer group but also provide greater benefits in terms of enhanced nutrition and functionality. Milk whey proteins are one of the most valued constituents due to their nutritional and techno-functional attributes. Whey proteins are rich in bioactive peptides, possessing bioactive properties such as being antioxidant and antihypertensive as well as having antimicrobial activities, which, when ingested, confers several health benefits. These peptides have the potential to be used as an active food ingredient in the production of functional foods. In addition to their bioactivities, whey proteins are known to possess enhanced functional attributes that allow them to be utilized in broad applications, such as an encapsulating agent or carrier materials to entrap bioactive compounds, emulsification, and in edible and active packaging. Hence, over the recent years, several whey protein-based ingredients have been developed and utilized in making formulations for a wide range of foods to harness their beneficial properties. This review highlights the bioactive properties, functional characteristics, associated processing limitations, and applications of different whey protein fractions and derivatives in the field of food formulations, encapsulation, and packaging.

DIA proteomics reveals hypotensive and immune-enhancing constituents in buffalo whey from different altitudes

The selection of raw milk with high levels of functional components that have health-promoting activities is very important for the exploitation and production of functional milk, but the differences in the functional components of whey from buffalo raised at different altitudes have not been thoroughly investigated. Here, we detected the effects of altitudes on the functional components in whey from dairy buffalo farms situated at low altitude (LA), medium altitude (MA), and high altitude (HA) sites with data-independent acquisition proteomic approaches. In 33 samples, 9331 peptides corresponding to 1008 high-confidence proteins were detected. HA-whey had a lower level of angiotensinogen than that of the LA- and MA-whey, and conversely contained higher levels of immune-enhancing components than for the latter two groups. Differential proteins were involved in vascular smooth muscle contraction, complement and coagulation cascades, and the secretion, production and regulation pathways in immune components. LA-whey showed higher levels of lymphocyte antigen and selenoprotein F than that of the HA-whey. Owing to the biological functions of their most abundant components, HA- and LA-whey are suitable for the processing of functional milk for lowering blood pressure, and the production of immune milk, respectively.

Functional milk proteome analysis of genetically diverse goats from different agro climatic regions

Goat milk, a choice of substitution to mother's milk for its composition, fulfils nutritional requirement of infants, pregnant mothers and older people. The present study was carried out to unravel the milk proteome profiles from geographically and genetically diverse goat breeds by gel based 2DE and nLC-MS/MS. A total of 1307 functional proteins comprising casein and other low abundance proteins were identified. Gene annotations revealed that the majority of the proteins were involved in binding function, catalytic activity and structural molecules and localised in nucleus and membrane. The distinguished proteins were involved in 144 KEGG pathways in information processing, metabolism, cellular process, organismal systems and diseases. The large number of proteins and peptides including bioactive peptides were reported from goat milk from diverse agro-climatic regions of India indicating their significant potential for human health applications. SIGNIFICANCE: Goat milk in India is used in various Ayurvedic formulations to treat a number of ailments and allergies as well as for nutraceutical formulations. The study identifies milk protein variants both at protein and DNA level and subsequent identification of proteins by 2DE and nLC-MS/MS resulting in a proteome comprising of 1307 proteins. The specific proteins and peptides having significant role in immune regulation, disease pathways, cellular growth and metabolism have been identified. The results contribute to goat milk protein and peptide database which is very limited. We identified proteins for specific functional categories and associated them with different pathways for studying functional diversity of goat milk proteins. The proteins and peptides identified can be used for multiple human health application.

Comparative milk proteome analysis of Kashmiri and Jersey cattle identifies differential expression of key proteins involved in immune system regulation and milk quality

BACKGROUND

Exploration of the bioactive components of bovine milk has gained global interest due to their potential applications in human nutrition and health promotion. Despite advances in proteomics profiling, limited studies have been carried out to fully characterize the bovine milk proteome. This study explored the milk proteome of Jersey and Kashmiri cattle at day 90 of lactation using high-resolution mass spectrometry based quantitative proteomics nano-scale LC-MS/Q-TOF technique. Data are available via ProteomeXchange with identifier PXD017412.

RESULTS

Proteins from whey were fractionated by precipitation into high and low abundant proteins. A total of 81 high-abundant and 99 low-abundant proteins were significantly differentially expressed between Kashmiri and Jersey cattle, clearly differentiating the two breeds at the proteome level. Among the top differentiating proteins, the Kashmiri cattle milk proteome was characterised by increased concentrations of immune-related proteins (apelin, acid glycoprotein, CD14 antigen), neonatal developmental protein (probetacellulin), xenobiotic metabolising enzyme (flavin monooxygenase 3 (FMO3), GLYCAM1 and HSP90AA1 (chaperone) while the Jersey milk proteome presented higher concentrations of enzyme modulators (SERPINA1, RAC1, serine peptidase inhibitor) and hydrolases (LTF, LPL, CYM, PNLIPRP2). Pathway analysis in Kashmiri cattle revealed enrichment of key pathways involved in the regulation of mammary gland development like Wnt signalling pathway, EGF receptor signalling pathway and FGF signalling pathway while a pathway (T-cell activation pathway) associated with immune system regulation was significantly enriched in Jersey cattle. Most importantly, the high-abundant FMO3 enzyme with an observed 17-fold higher expression in Kashmiri cattle milk seems to be a characteristic feature of the breed. The presence of this (FMO3) bioactive peptide/enzyme in Kashmiri cattle could be economically advantageous for milk products from Kashmiri cattle.

CONCLUSION

In conclusion, this is the first study to provide insights not only into the milk proteome differences between Kashmiri and Jersey cattle but also provides potential directions for application of specific milk proteins from Kashmiri cattle in special milk preparations like infant formula.

Yogurt Intake Reduces All-Cause and Cardiovascular Disease Mortality: A Meta-Analysis of Eight Prospective Cohort Studies

OBJECTIVE

To assess the relationship between yogurt intake and mortality risk from prospective cohort studies.

METHODS

The PubMed, EMBASE, and Web of Science databases were searched for all records related to yogurt intake and mortality risk [all-cause or cardiovascular disease (CVD) or cancer mortality] before October 1, 2018. The Newcastle-Ottawa Quality Scale was used to estimate the quality of all eligible articles. The results of the highest and lowest categories of yogurt intake in each study were collected and the effect size was pooled using a random effects model. The dose-response analysis was calculated using the generalized least squares trend estimation model.

RESULTS

Eight eligible cohort studies were included in this meta-analysis. There were 235,676 participants in the 8 studies, and the number of deaths was 14,831. Compared with the lowest category, the highest category of yogurt intake was not significantly related with all-cause mortality [hazard ratio (HR)=0.93; 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.85, 1.01], CVD mortality (HR=0.92; 95% CI: 0.81, 1.03) and cancer mortality (HR=0.97; 95% CI: 0.83, 1.12). These studies were homogenous, since the homogeneity test showed that I² was 28.7%, 15.1% and 11.8%, respectively. However, yogurt intake ⩾200 g/d was significantly associated with a lower all-cause mortality (HR=0.88; 95% CI: 0.80, 0.96) and CVD mortality (HR=0.87; 95% CI: 0.77, 0.99) in the subgroup analysis. The dose-response analysis showed that yogurt intake of 200 g/d was inversely associated with all-cause mortality (P=0.041, HR=0.95, 95% CI: 0.92, 1.00) and CVD mortality (P=0.009, HR=0.92, 95% CI: 0.86, 0.98), and all of which were linear relationship (P>0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

This review provided the evidence regarding yogurt intake can reduce all-cause and CVD mortality. Although some positive findings were identified, more high-quality cohort studies and randomized controlled trials are warranted on a possible protective effect of yoghurt on health.

Dairy Consumption in Relation to Hypertension Among a Large Population of University Students: The MEPHASOUS Study

BACKGROUND

Hypertension is a chronic condition that its prevalence is increasing at an alarming rate. Findings on the association between dairy consumption and hypertension are conflicting and few data are available in the Middle East.

AIM

To assess the association between dairy consumption and hypertension among a large population of university students.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The current study was performed in the framework of the Mental and Physical Health Assessment of University Student (MEPHASOUS) project. Overall, 67,011 university students with complete information were included in the statistical analysis. To assess dairy consumption, a self-administered dietary habits questionnaire was employed. Blood pressure was measured using a standard protocol. The systolic/diastolic blood pressure of ≥140/90 mmHg was considered hypertension.

RESULTS

Hypertension was prevalent among 6.9% of students. A significant inverse association was found between dairy consumption and the odds of hypertension; such that after taking potential confounders into account, individuals in the highest levels of dairy consumption had 85% lower odds for having hypertension compared with those in the lowest levels (odds ratio (OR): 0.15, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.13-0.18). Such an inverse association was also seen among males (OR: 0.14, 95% CI: 0.11-0.18) and females (OR: 0.16, 95% CI: 0.12-0.21), normal-weight students (OR: 0.15, 95% CI: 0.12-0.18) and those with overweight or obesity (OR: 0.15, 95% CI: 0.11-0.21), and individuals with (OR: 0.13, 95% CI: 0.11-0.16) and without (OR: 0.24, 95% CI: 0.17-0.35) family history of hypertension.

CONCLUSION

Our results support the previous findings on the inverse association between dairy consumption and hypertension among university students.

Casein and Peptides Derived from Casein as Antileukaemic Agents

Milk is a heterogeneous lacteal secretion mixture of numerous components that exhibit a wide variety of chemical and functional activities. Casein, the main protein in milk, is composed of α-, β-, and κ-caseins, each of which is important for nutritional value and for promoting the release of cytokines, also are linked to the regulation of haematopoiesis and immune response and inhibit the proliferation and induce the differentiation of leukaemia cells. It has been shown that the digestive process of caseins leads to the release of bioactive peptides that are involved in the regulation of blood pressure and the inhibition or activation of the immune response by serving as agonists or antagonists of opioid receptors, thus controlling the expression of genes that exert epigenetic control. Later, they bind to opioid receptor, block nuclear factor κ-beta, increase the redox potential, and reduce oxidative stress and the pro-inflammatory agents that favour an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory environment. Therefore, the bioactive peptides of casein could be compounds with antileukaemia potential. This review provides a summary of current knowledge about caseins and casein peptides on the immune system as well as their roles in the natural defence against the development of leukaemia and as relevant epigenetic regulators that can help eradicate leukaemia.

Improving Expression of Bovine Lactoferrin N-Lobe by Promoter Optimization and Codon Engineering in Bacillus subtilis and Its Antibacterial Activity

Bovine lactoferrin N-lobe plays an important key in the nonimmunological defense system. In this work, the most suitable promoter P_veg was selected and the fragment coding bovine lactoferrin N-lobe was optimized according to codon bias of Bacillus. The recombinant plasmid pMA0911-P_veg-mBLF-N was introduced into Baicillus subtilis 168 to create B. subtilis/pMA0911-P_veg-mBLF-N. The bovine lactoferrin N-lobe was highly expressed at 28 °C for 15 h. Its purified protein was obtained with 16.5 mg/L and a purity of 93.6% using ammonium sulfate precipitation, Ni-NTA, and molecular exclusion. About 200 ng/mL purified bovine lactoferrin N-lobe completely inhibited cell-growth of Escherichia coli JM109 (DE3), 70.3% of Pseudomonas aeruginosa CGMCC 1.6740, and 41.5% of Staphylococcus aureus CGMCC 1.282. To our knowledge, this is the first report about active expression, purification, and characterization of bovine lactoferrin N-lobe in safe bacterium B. subtilis, which opens an available application way in the biomedical and food industries.

The "Grass-Fed" Milk Story: Understanding the Impact of Pasture Feeding on the Composition and Quality of Bovine Milk

Milk is a highly nutritious food that contains an array of macro and micro components, scientifically proven to be beneficial to human health. While the composition of milk is influenced by a variety of factors, such as genetics, health, lactation stage etc., the animal's diet remains a key mechanism by which its nutrition and processing characteristics can be altered. Pasture feeding has been demonstrated to have a positive impact on the nutrient profile of milk, increasing the content of some beneficial nutrients such as Omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids, vaccenic acid, and conjugated linoleic acid (CLA), while reducing the levels of Omega-6 fatty acids and palmitic acid. These resultant alterations to the nutritional profile of "Grass-Fed" milk resonate with consumers that desire healthy, "natural", and sustainable dairy products. This review provides a comprehensive comparison of the impact that pasture and non-pasture feeding systems have on bovine milk composition from a nutritional and functional (processability) perspective, highlighting factors that will be of interest to dairy farmers, processors, and consumers.

Technical position on milk and its derivatives in adult health and disease from the Asociación Mexicana de Gastroenterología and the Asociación Mexicana de Gerontología y Geriatría

Milk is a liquid food that possesses an important quantity of highly bioavailable macronutrients. In addition, it is readily accessible, as well as relatively inexpensive. Given that the knowledge of physicians about nutrition and food composition is deficient, in general, many of the dietary interventions recommended in diverse clinical settings lack a scientific basis. The aim of the present review was to produce a technical opinion that serves as a frame of reference to best sustain recommendations for consuming milk and dairy products as daily nutrition in the adult and older adult. The effects of milk and dairy products during the pediatric stage are not addressed in the present work. The Asociación Mexicana de Gastroenterología and the Asociación Mexicana de Gerontología y Geriatría jointly discussed and analyzed topics dealing with the legal designation of milk, the classification and nutritional profile of cow's milk, its nutritional characteristics, its consumption in the adult, intolerance to cow's milk, and associations of milk consumption with digestive tract alterations and other conditions. Finally, certain aspects of milk consumption in the older adult and its relation to overall health are briefly discussed.

Administration of the Hyper-immune Bovine Colostrum Extract IMM-124E Ameliorates Experimental Murine Colitis

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Inflammatory bowel disease [IBD] is accompanied by lesions in the epithelial barrier, which allow translocation of bacterial products from the gut lumen to the host's circulation. IMM-124E is a colostrum-based product containing high levels of anti-E.coli-LPS IgG, and might limit exposure to bacterial endotoxins. Here, we investigated whether IMM-124E can ameliorate intestinal inflammation.

METHODS

Acute colitis was induced in WT C57Bl/6J mice by administration of 2.5% dextran sodium sulphate [DSS] for 7 days. T cell transfer colitis was induced via transfer of 0.5 x 106 naïve T cells into RAG2-/- C57Bl/6J mice. IMM-124E was administered daily by oral gavage, either preventively or therapeutically.

RESULTS

Treatment with IMM-124E significantly ameliorated colitis in acute DSS colitis and in T cell transfer colitis. Maximum anti-inflammatory effects were detected at an IMM-124E concentration of 100 mg/kg body weight, whereas 25 mg/kg and 500 mg/kg were less effective. Histology revealed reduced levels of infiltrating immune cells and less pronounced mucosal damage. Flow cytometry revealed reduced numbers of effector T helper cells in the intestine, whereas levels of regulatory T cells were enhanced. IMM-124E treatment reduced the DSS-induced increase of serum levels of lipopolysaccharide [LPS]-binding protein, indicating reduced systemic LPS exposure.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results demonstrate that oral treatment with IMM-124E significantly reduces intestinal inflammation, via decreasing the accumulation of pathogenic T cells and concomitantly increasing the induction of regulatory T cells. Our study confirms the therapeutic efficacy of IMM-124E in acute colitis and suggests that administration of IMM-124E might represent a novel therapeutic strategy to induce or maintain remission in chronic colitis.

Comparative transcriptome analysis of mammary epithelial cells at different stages of lactation reveals wide differences in gene expression and pathways regulating milk synthesis between Jersey and Kashmiri cattle

Jersey and Kashmiri cattle are important dairy breeds that contribute significantly to the total milk production of the Indian northern state of Jammu and Kashmir. The Kashmiri cattle germplasm has been extensively diluted through crossbreeding with Jersey cattle with the goal of enhancing its milk production ability. However, crossbred animals are prone to diseases resulting to unsustainable milk production. This study aimed to provide a comprehensive transcriptome profile of mammary gland epithelial cells at different stages of lactation and to find key differences in genes and pathways regulating milk traits between Jersey and Kashmiri cattle. Mammary epithelial cells (MEC) isolated from milk obtained from six lactating cows (three Jersey and three Kashmiri cattle) on day 15 (D15), D90 and D250 in milk, representing early, mid and late lactation, respectively were used. RNA isolated from MEC was subjected to next-generation RNA sequencing and bioinformatics processing. Casein and whey protein genes were found to be highly expressed throughout the lactation stages in both breeds. Largest differences in differentially expressed genes (DEG) were between D15 vs D90 (1,805 genes) in Kashmiri cattle and, D15 vs D250 (3,392 genes) in Jersey cattle. A total of 1,103, 1,356 and 1,397 genes were differentially expressed between Kashmiri and Jersey cattle on D15, D90 and D250, respectively. Antioxidant genes like RPLPO and RPS28 were highly expressed in Kashmiri cattle. Differentially expressed genes in both Kashmiri and Jersey were enriched for multicellular organismal process, receptor activity, catalytic activity, signal transducer activity, macromolecular complex and developmental process gene ontology terms. Whereas, biological regulation, endopeptidase activity and response to stimulus were enriched in Kashmiri cattle and, reproduction and immune system process were enriched in Jersey cattle. Most of the pathways responsible for regulation of milk production like JAK-STAT, p38 MAPK pathway, PI3 kinase pathway were enriched by DEG in Jersey cattle only. Although Kashmiri has poor milk production efficiency, the present study suggests possible physicochemical and antioxidant properties of Kashmiri cattle milk that needs to be further explored.

Concentration of Bioactive Components in the Milk of Simmental Cows Depending on the Feeding System

The aim of the study was to determine the yield and chemical composition of milk from TMR-(group I) and pasture-fed Simmental cows (group II). The study was conducted with second and third lactation Simmental cows between 30 and 200 days of lactation. The present research showed that compared to TMR feeding, the use of summer pasture feeding and proper supplementation with high-energy feeds allow for higher milk yield and higher nutritive value of the milk. Compared to TMR-fed cows (group I), milk from pastured cows (group II) was characterized by a more beneficial composition of protein fractions, and a higher content of α-lactalbumin, β-lactoglobulin and lactoferrin. It also contained more vitamins A and E, calcium, magnesium and iodine, and had a significantly (P≤0.05) lower cholesterol content. The milk of cows from group II contained over twice as much CLA (1.59% of all acids) and 35% more n-3 PUFA, which resulted in a more beneficial n-6/n-3 fatty acids ratio of 2.88. In addition, this milk contained significantly (P≤0.05) less saturated fatty acids (SFA) and significantly more (P≤0.05) mono-(MUFA) and polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA). Consequently, the MUFA:SFA and PUFA:SFA ratios in this group were more favourable at 0.448 and 0.066, respectively. Also the content of desirable fatty acids (DFA) with hypocholesterolemic effects was higher in group II, which resulted in a more beneficial DFA:OFA ratio of 0.8 in this group. In conclusion, the use of summer pasture feeding and a proper supplemented feeding ration in Simmental cows with high-energy feeds allow for high milk yield and high nutritive value of the milk.

Isolation and Characterization of NP-POL Nonapeptide for Possible Therapeutic Use in Parkinson's Disease

Colostrum and milk are the initial mammalian nourishment and rich reservoir of essential nutrients for newborn development. Bioactive peptides isolated from natural sources, such as colostrum, serve as endogenous regulators and can be used as alternative therapeutic agents in the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases. One example is the previously unknown NP-POL nonapeptide isolated from Colostrinin. In the present study, we investigated a method of NP-POL nonapeptide isolation using Bio-Gel P2 molecular sieve chromatography. We showed the protective effect of NP-POL on 6-hydroxydopamine- (6-OHDA-) induced neurotoxicity using rat adrenal pheochromocytoma (PC12 Tet On) cells. Treatment of PC12 cells with NP-POL nonapeptide reduced 6-OHDA-induced apoptosis and caused transient phosphorylation of extracellular signal-regulated kinases (ERK 1/2), which were shown to promote cell survival. NP-POL nonapeptide also protected neuronal cells against oxidative injury induced by 6-OHDA. These results showed a potential use of NP-POL in the therapy of Parkinson's disease.

How Milk and Its Proteins Affect Growth, Bone Health, and Weight

Milk has long been recognized to constitute a complete, well-balanced source of the nutrients and energy required to ensure the proper postnatal growth and development of infants. A growing body of evidence suggests the positive effects of dairy products and particularly of milk proteins on linear growth also in older children, both healthy or during recovery from malnutrition. This evidence led the way to the performance of extensive research aimed to delineate the components of milk and the mechanisms acting to make milk so effective. The present review summarizes the current knowledge regarding the influence of milk and its proteins on linear growth in healthy and malnourished children, focusing also on other important aspects of healthy growth, including bone health, weight status, and body composition.
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Effects of two different domestic boiling practices on the allergenicity of cow's milk proteins

BACKGROUND

The sale of raw drinking milk through automatic dispensers is permitted in some EU member states, but consumers are usually advised to boil the milk before consumption. The present study has been conducted to evaluate the effects of two common domestic boiling techniques on the proteins of raw milk and, in particular, on their potential allergenicity.

RESULTS

Native one-dimensional electrophoresis, N-terminal amino acid sequencing and immunoblotting have been used to characterize the protein pattern and to evaluate the possible changes in the allergenic properties of the processed milk. The main result of this investigation is that heating induces the aggregation of β-lactoglobulin in higher-molecular-weight products, while caseins seem to be more resistant to the treatments. β-Lactoglobulin aggregates have been found to be non-immunoreactive with the sera of subjects suffering from cow's milk protein allergy.

CONCLUSION

Domestic boiling modifies the milk protein profile, causing a minor reduction in milk allergenicity. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry.

Epidermal growth factor and transforming growth factor-α in human milk of different lactation stages and different regions and their relationship with maternal diet

Epidermal growth factor (EGF) and transforming growth factor-α (TGF-α) are important growth-promoting factors in human milk and play an important role in a newborn's gastrointestinal function.