Bioactive Components in Bovine Milk

The development of a novel technique to evaluate binding between probiotic bacteria and phospholipids, and the creation of a dairy-based food product rich in milk bioactives

“…Some of the whey proteins include α-lactalbumins and β-lactoglobulins (18% and 48%, respectively), immunoglobulins (12%), and serum albumin (6%) (Swaisgood 1993;Tremblay et al 2003). These bioactives are found in both milk and colostrum, but they are much more concentrated in the latter (Korhonen 2009). Lactalbumins and lactoglobulins are the two major fractions of whey, and can be distinguished by their chemical behavior; the former are soluble in 50% saturated (NH 4 ) 2 SO 4 or saturated MgSO 4 , while the latter come out of solution as salts under these conditions.…”

“…Leucine has also been found capable of increasing insulin secretion by adjusting the concentration of this hormone in the blood, and is also key in regulating the metabolism of amino acids and proteins (Ko and Kwak 2009). Whey proteins have also been shown beneficial in exercise performance and muscle recovery, satiety and weight control, stress relief, cognitive function, cancer prevention, and wound healing (Korhonen 2009). …”

“…Ample research has shown its value in improving immune responses, inactivating microbial toxins, improving blood pressure, and promoting the growth of bifidobacteria (Korhonen 2009). …”

“…Lactoferrin is an ironbinding glycoprotein found in milk and colostrum, and is of major importance in conferring anticancer, anti-inflammatory, and extensive antimicrobial effects. It is suspected to be instrumental in innate immune function against pathogens, stimulation of antibody response, prevention of microbial adhesion to epithelial cells, and reduction of destructive attack by molecules such as free radicals (Korhonen 2009). …”

“…The most common of the digestive enzymes involved are pepsin, trypsin, and chymotrypsin. Starter cultures used in yogurt and cheese have been shown to liberate a variety of potent bioactive peptides (Korhonen 2009). Their functions consist of antimicrobial, antihypertensive (ACE-inhibitory), antithrombotic, antioxidative, anticytotoxic, probiotic, binding vitamins and minerals for improved absorption, hypocholesterolemic activity, and immune supportive effects (Ko and Kwak 2009;Park 2009).…”