Physicochemical, structural and functional properties of protein isolates and major protein fractions from common vetch (Vicia sativa L.)

Common vetch (CV), a leguminous crop cultivated for green manure and fodder rich in protein and starch, is widespread over much area of the northern hemisphere. Its seeds can be used as a protein source to human consumption. CV protein isolates (CVPI) and major protein fractions (CV albumin protein, CVAP; CV globulin protein, CVGP; CV glutelin protein, CVGTP) from 4 samples were investigated the properties to facilitate full use of protein resources. Protein comprises 27.70 %-32.14 % of the dry CV seed weight, which is mainly composed by CVAP (26.79 %-56.12 %) and CVGP (22.78 %-52.42 %). CVPI, CVAP and CVGP mainly presented 7S and 11S components. CVGTP mainly contained the 11S component. They showed difference in thermal properties and surface hydrophobicity. Circular dichroism data showed that alpha-helix was their major secondary structure. CVPI and major protein fractions exhibited a U-shape protein solubility. CVPI and CVAP had advantages in emulsifying and foaming properties. This study provided novel insights on unexploited sources of CV proteins with inter-esting characteristics in terms of potential uses as protein-based foods.

Automated summary

This study investigated the properties of protein isolates and major protein fractions from common vetch seeds and found that they have high protein content and diverse components. The study also revealed that CVPI and CVAP have advantageous emulsifying and foaming properties, providing new insights for the development of protein-based foods using vetch protein resources.